Cypress Spurge
( Euphorbia cyparissias L.)
Cypress spurge is a member of the Spurge family, and was introduced from Eurasia as a hardy landscape perennial. It is an upright plant with erect stems that reproduces by seed and root shoot buds. The three-capsuled fruits of Cypress spurge explode at maturity, ejecting the seeds that may remain viable for eight years. Also, it is 12-18 inches tall at maturity in areas that receive partial shade to full sun preferring dry to moist yards, roadsides and cemeteries.
The plant can be distinguished from Leafy spurge (Euphorbia esula L.) by its slender stems with crowded, narrow leaves. Yellowish-green heart-shaped bracts enclose the small yellow-green flowers. The bracts have the appearance of flowers. All parts of the plant, including the root, have a milky sap that can be irritating to eyes and skin, so gloves must be worn when handling the plant.
Cypress spurge is one the weeds that must be managed statewide in compliance with the Colorado Noxious Weed Act. It can be controlled by the use of herbicides or hand-pulling and digging. If the plants have been hand-pulled or dug, they can be disposed of by bagging them and sending the bags to the landfill.