Myrtle spurge / donkey-tail spurge
Euphorbia myrsinites
Myrtle spurge / donkey-tail spurge (Euphorbia myrsinites) is a groundcover suited to the Colorado Front Range. It matures to about 4–8 in tall and 12–24 in wide, needs low water, and prefers full sun. DO NOT PLANT. Listed as Colorado noxious weed (List A) — must be removed. Sap is dangerously caustic.
low water4–8 in tall and 12–24 in wideXeric / water-wiseToxic to dogsInvasive in Colorado
Photos
At a glance
- Botanical name
- Euphorbia myrsinites
- Type
- Groundcover
- Mature size
- 4–8 in tall and 12–24 in wide
- Water needs
- low water
- Sun
- full sun
- Colorado native
- No
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Soil
- sandy, well drained only
- Soil pH
- 6.5–8.5
Frequently asked questions
- Is Myrtle spurge / donkey-tail spurge good for the Colorado Front Range?
- Yes. Myrtle spurge / donkey-tail spurge is included in the Front Range Plant Finder as a groundcover suited to Colorado's Front Range.
- How big does Myrtle spurge / donkey-tail spurge get?
- It matures to about 4–8 in tall and 12–24 in wide.
- How much water does Myrtle spurge / donkey-tail spurge need?
- It needs low water once established.
- Is Myrtle spurge / donkey-tail spurge safe for dogs?
- No — Myrtle spurge / donkey-tail spurge is considered toxic to dogs. Keep pets away and check with your vet.
