Plant species

petty spurge Euphorbia peplus

Euphorbiaceae

Species information

Description

A spurge with simple leaves and small flower-like inflorescences framed by bracts. Small glabrous annual with obovate leaves and repeatedly branched green inflorescences composed of cyathia.

Plant traits

Growth form

forb

Life cycle

annual

Height

5–35 cm

Typical season

123456789101112

Active growth

Flowering

Fruiting

Timing varies with site and year.

Habitat conditions

Habitat

ruderal habitats · arable land · gardens and parks

Light

full sun · partial shade

Moisture

mesic

Soil

indifferent

Substrate

indifferent

Pollination

insect pollination · self-pollination

Status

native

Interesting facts

Each cyathium contains highly reduced separate male and female flowers; the seeds may also be dispersed by ants.

LifeSystems

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