Prostrate Spurge
Euphorbia prostrata
A low-growing, mat-forming annual weed with reddish stems that exude a milky white sap when broken. The small, oval leaves are arranged in pairs opposite each other along the stems.
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade; prefers at least 6 hours of direct light.
- Water
- Low watering needs; highly drought-tolerant. Over-watering can lead to root rot in compacted soils.
- Growth
- Prostrate, mat-forming annual. Stems can reach up to 8-10 inches in length but rarely rise more than an inch off the ground.
Care instructions
Rarely cultivated intentionally as it is used as a medicinal herb or treated as a weed. It thrives in neglected areas with full sun and minimal water. If growing, provide well-drained soil and avoid over-watering.
Growing details
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; prefers at least 6 hours of direct light.
Watering
Low watering needs; highly drought-tolerant. Over-watering can lead to root rot in compacted soils.
Soil
Prefers dry, sandy, or gravelly soils but can grow in almost any soil type with a pH of 5.5 to 8.0.
Hardiness zone
Typically grows as a summer annual in zones 4-11, though it can survive as a perennial in frost-free climates.
Growth habit
Prostrate, mat-forming annual. Stems can reach up to 8-10 inches in length but rarely rise more than an inch off the ground.
Bloom season
Summer through early fall; produces tiny, inconspicuous green or pinkish flowers (cyathia) in the leaf axils.
Propagation
Primarily by seed; a single plant can produce thousands of seeds that remain viable in the soil for years.
Common pests & issues
Few pests bother it due to its toxic sap, but it is a frequent host for powdery mildew in humid conditions.
Similar species
Spotted Spurge (Euphorbia maculata) which usually has a dark red spot in the center of the leaf, and Petty Spurge (Euphorbia peplus) which grows more upright.
Interesting facts
The milky sap contains terpenes that can cause temporary blindness if it comes into contact with the eyes. Its seeds become sticky when wet, allowing them to cling to animals and shoes for dispersal.