toothed spurge
Family
EuphorbiaceaeScientific Name
Euphorbia dentata
Other Common Names:
wild poinsettia
Leaves
Leaves are lanceolate in outline, approximately 1/2 to 3 inches long, with toothed margins. Leaves are oppositely arranged, usually have hairs, and often have at least one dark red spot on the upper surface, especially with age. Lower leaves may sometimes be alternately arranged. Leaves at the ends of stems near the flowers often appear whorled.
Identifying Characteristics
Opposite, lanceolate leaves with dark red markings and milky sap emitted by all parts of the plant.Erect annual with lanceolate leaves that often have at least one dark red spot. All parts of the plant emit a milky sap when broken.
Flower Seed Head
Flowers occur in clusters at the ends of branches. Flowers are relatively inconspicuous and have no petals.
Seed Fruit
A capsule that is yellowish-green in color and smooth. Each capsule normally contains 3 seeds.
Where Found
Toothed spurge may reach 2 feet in height and is found from New York west to Arizona. Toothed spurge is primarily a weed of pastures, hayfields, roadsides, and other noncrop areas.
Growth Habit
upright and nonwoody
Thorns or Spines
not present
Approximate Flower Diameter
larger
Dominant Flower Color
Varies:
white,
yellow
Flower Symmetry
not symmetrical
Leaf Hairs
has hairs
Leaf Shape
Varies:
lance,
oval
Leaf Arrangement
Varies:
alternate,
opposite
Leaf Margin
serrated
Leaf Structure
simple
Leaf Stalk
shorter than leaf
Stem Hairs
has hairs
Stem Cross Section
round or oval
Milky Sap
present
Root Structure
taproot
Life Cycle
summer annual
Ochrea
not present
Plant Type
Herb