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Annual Biennial

Euphorbia lathyris
  • RHS Plants for pollinators

caper spurge

An upright biennial, to 1.2m in height, with narrow, lance-shaped dark-green leaves to 15cm long, held in regimented horizontal pairs on unbranched stems. Small yellow-green flowers to 4mm in diameter, are borne from late spring into summer and are followed by caper-like, green seeds held in clusters of three, ripening to brown

Other common names
caper bush
caper plant
see moreeuphorbia-oil plant
mole plant
mole tree
myrtle spurge
spring wort
wild caper
Synonyms
Euphorbia crucifolia
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Size
Ultimate height
1–1.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
1–2 years
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Clay
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green Yellow Green
Summer Green Yellow Green
Autumn Green Brown Green
Winter Green
Position
  • Full sun
  • Partial shade
Aspect

East–facing or South–facing or North–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Drought resistance
Yes
Hardiness
H5
Botanical details
Family
Euphorbiaceae
Native to the UK
Yes
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Columnar upright
Potentially harmful
Humans/Pets: IRRITANT to skin/eye, harmful if eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. For further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants
Genus

Euphorbia can be annuals, perennials, shrubs or succulents, with milky sap and small flowers held within cupped, often colourful bracts

Name status

Correct

Plant range
Europe

How to grow

Cultivation

Prefers a well-drained soil in full sun but will tolerate moist soils and shady conditions. Readily self-seeds so may have the potential to become a nuisance; remove flowers as they fade to limit spread. See Euphorbia for further advice

Propagation

Propagate by seed in spring

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Wildlife gardens
  • Wildflower meadow
Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free

Get involved

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