In this article, we will delve into the impact that Euphorbia myrsinites has had on contemporary society. Since its inception, Euphorbia myrsinites has generated constant debate and aroused widespread interest in various areas of study. Over the years, Euphorbia myrsinites has taken on particular meaning and relevance, influencing the way we understand the world around us. Through detailed analysis, we will explore the many facets of Euphorbia myrsinites, its evolution over time, and its role in shaping our current reality. This article seeks to offer a panoramic and enriching vision of Euphorbia myrsinites, with the purpose of promoting a greater understanding and appreciation of its importance in the current context.
Euphorbia myrsinites, the myrtle spurge, blue spurge, or broad-leaved glaucous-spurge, is a succulent species of flowering plant in the spurge family Euphorbiaceae.
Euphorbia myrsinites | |
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Scientific classification | |
Kingdom: | Plantae |
Clade: | Tracheophytes |
Clade: | Angiosperms |
Clade: | Eudicots |
Clade: | Rosids |
Order: | Malpighiales |
Family: | Euphorbiaceae |
Genus: | Euphorbia |
Species: | E. myrsinites
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Binomial name | |
Euphorbia myrsinites |
The plant is native to southeastern Europe and Asia Minor, from Italy east through the Balkans to Crimea and Turkey.
The specific epithet myrsinites is derived from the Greek word μυρσινίτης (myrsinites), which was used in Dioscorides's De Materia Medica to describe its similarity to μυρσίνη (myrsine), aka myrtle (Myrtus communis).
Myrtle spurge is an evergreen perennial. It has sprawling stems growing to 20–40 cm long. The leaves are spirally arranged, fleshy, pale glaucous bluish-green, 1–2 cm long. The flowers are inconspicuous, but surrounded by bright sulphur-yellow bracts (tinged red in the cultivar 'Washfield'); they are produced during the spring.
Plants spread primarily by seed and are capable of projecting seed up to 15 feet.
The plant's milky sap can cause significant skin and eye irritation in humans and may cause blindness with contact with the eyes. The plant causes nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea when ingested. Goggles, gloves and protective gear is often used when removing plants. Children are more susceptible than adults to symptoms from myrtle spurge, suggesting play areas not in proximity to the species. Pets can have similar reactions to myrtle spurge sap exposure.
Euphorbia myrsinites is cultivated as an ornamental plant for its distinctive silver-gray foliage, and is used in garden borders, 'modernist' mass plantings, and as a potted plant. It is planted in drought tolerant gardens in California and other dry climates.
In the United Kingdom, the cultivated plant has gained the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.
Euphorbia myrsinites is identified as a noxious weed and/or invasive species in some regions.