Leafy Spurge (Euphorbia esula)

Leafy spurge, a member of the Spurge family, was introduced from Europe. It is a creeping perennial that reproduces by seed and extensive creeping roots. The roots can extend as deep as 30 feet on a plant that grows 1 to 3 feet tall, with pale green shoots and small yellow-green flowers. The plant, including the root, has milky latex that is damaging to eyes and sensitive skin. Leafy spurge is an extremely difficult plant to control because of its extensive sprouting root. It is adapted to a wide variety of habitats in the state and is very competitive with other plant species. If it becomes established in rangeland, pasture, and riparian sites, it may exclude all other vegetation due to its competitive nature.

Comments: Leafy spurge is found primarily in Woody Creek, Twining Flats, Starwood, McLain Flats, Jaffee Park, and Upper River Road. An extremely difficult to control perennial weed that will require re-treatments to achieve adequate control. Development of a management plan is helpful to manage large areas of leafy spurge.

Biological controls: Sheep or goats will graze leafy spurge. If livestock graze leafy spurge after seed formation, hold animals in a corral for at least seven days before moving them to an uninfested area to avoid seed spread.

Several flea beetles Apthona spp. are available from the Colorado Department of Agriculture Insectary in Palisade. These insects are available upon request at no charge to the public. The larvae bore into leafy spurge roots and the adults feed on the leaves. Also available from the Insectary are Oberea erythrocephala a stem and root crown mining long-horned beetle, and Spurgia esulae a shoot tip gall midge. These insects are also available for sale from commercial distributors.

Chemical controls: For additional information contact your local city, county or town natural resource office. (See section VII for phone numbers.)

Cultural controls: Any activity that encourages vigorous grass growth is very important. Overgrazing stresses grasses and makes them less competitive to leafy spurge.

Mechanical controls: Mowing leafy spurge at 14 to 21 day intervals may cause higher susceptibility to fall applied herbicides.