Plant species

cypress spurge Euphorbia cyparissias

Euphorbiaceae

Species information

Description

A spurge with simple leaves and small flower-like inflorescences framed by bracts. A common perennial of dry grassland and disturbed sites, with narrow leaves and many yellow-green inflorescences.

Plant traits

Growth form

forb

Life cycle

perennial

Height

15–50 cm

Typical season

123456789101112

Active growth

Flowering

Fruiting

Timing varies with site and year.

Habitat conditions

Habitat

dry grasslands · ruderal habitats · forest edge

Light

full sun

Moisture

dry · mesic

Soil

base-rich · neutral

Substrate

indifferent

Pollination

insect pollination

Status

native

Interesting facts

The narrow leaves are crowded along the stem, giving the plant a cypress-like outline; the milky sap is irritating.

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