Petty Spurge

Petty Spurge
Peter Orchard
Tue, 01/31/2023 - 19:47














Species Photograph
















Introduction



Petty spurge, Euphorbia peplus, is one of those plant gardeners consider to be a scourge! It is certainly our most common Euphorbia, even more so than the familiar sun spurge. It occurs not only in gardens, of course, but in cultivated ground everywhere and is very difficult to eradicate, being one of those flowers that, as you pull them out, you help it spread its seeds! In common with some other Euphorbia it has a white sap in its stems which is highly toxic and it has been used to treat some forms of skin cancer hence other names for the plant include cancer weed and radium weed. So, if you despise petty spurge in your garden stop and think about its beneficial properties. It does not always pay to eradicate weeds, they can have their uses 



Description



Petty spurge is a small, annual plant that is native to Europe, Asia, and Africa. It is a member of the spurge family, Euphorbiaceae. The plant grows to a height of 10-20 cm and has a milky sap. The leaves are opposite and oval-shaped. The flowers are green and appear in clusters in the summer.



Similes



Whilst similar to other members of the ‘spurge’ family its diminutive stature sets it apart from others.



Habitat



Petty scourge grows in the quiet corners of gardens, along roadsides, and nestled within cracks in pavements, almost anywhere it can get a ‘root’ hold and where there is no competition from more vigorous plants. This plant flowers mainly from March through until November but it can easily survive all winter in mild weather or in sheltered locations.



Locally



You can find petty spurge almost anywhere around the streets of Sidmouth, it is very common.



Significance



Throughout history, petty spurge has been utilised for its medicinal properties. Its milky sap, contained within the stems and leaves, was historically used topically to treat various skin conditions, including warts, skin tumours, and other dermatological ailments. Contemporary research has revealed the presence of compounds within petty spurge, particularly ingenol mebutate, which shows potential in the treatment of certain skin conditions. Derived from the plant, ingenol mebutate has been incorporated into topical medications for conditions like actinic keratosis. References to the plant's healing properties can be traced back to ancient times, where it was mentioned in historical texts and utilised in traditional medicine across different cultures. It was believed to possess mystical properties and was often used in rituals aimed at warding off illness or misfortune.



Benefits



Petty Spurge, classified as a weed in many regions due to its prolific growth, plays a role in ecosystems by colonising disturbed areas and contributing to soil stabilisation.



Summary



Petty Spurge, with its unassuming presence and remarkable healing potential, stands as a testament to nature's resilience and the hidden treasures found within the simplest of plants. From its historical significance in traditional medicine to its modern applications in dermatological treatments, this unpretentious herb continues to intrigue and offer insights into the intricate relationship between nature and human well-being.











Species Specific
Euphorbia peplus









Species Reference
Blamey 234.05










Species Catalogue





* Spurges - Euphoribiaceae














Species Habitat





* J1: Cultivated and disturbed land

* J3: Built-up areas


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