Organic Horticulture in the Mid-Atlantic/Euphorbia maculata

<div style="text-align: center;"><big><big>Euphorbia maculata (Creeping Spurge)</big></big></div>Euphorbia maculata (creeping spurge) is a mat-forming native annual weed common throughout the region. It grows on any exposed soils, in sunny or partially shaded locations. The leaves are opposite, usually with a purple center on the upper side, on reddish stems. The tiny white flowers are quickly followed by very small seeds which are easily moved on shoes, tools, etc. Remove by pulling, or by hoeing followed by mulch. Plants should not be disposed of in cold composting systems, since they produce copious seed. The stems of this plant contain a milky sap that can cause skin irritation in susceptible people. thumb|225px|Flowering plant with roots thumb|225px|closeup of flowersthumb|225px|Young plant Euphorbia maculata