The "Scourge" of Myrtle Spurge

Myrtle Spurge has been declared a noxious weed. Myrtle spurge is highly invasive ornamental plant that is popular in xeriscapes and rock gardens in residential areas of Colorado. This plant is rapidly expanding into sensitive ecosystems, displacing native vegetation and reducing forage for wildlife. It is a low-growing perennial with trailing stems of fleshy blue-green alternate leaves. Flowers are inconspicuous, surrounded by yellow-green flower-like bracts that appear from March to May. Myrtle spurge reproduces only by seed and is capable of projecting seeds up to 15 feet.

How To Control Myrtle Spurge.

Herbicides - use of a product with picloram, 2,4-D or dicamba is best, also "Round Up" will work but continue to monitor the site.

Hand pulling or digging - works very well, but remember you won't be able to get up all of the roots, so continue to monitor the site for new growth.

CAUTION: Myrtle Spurge plants contain a milky white substance that is toxic to the skin and will cause skin burn or rash- so wear gloves, long sleeves, and long pants! Do not mow, the seeds will spread.

Obtsain additional information by contacting the CSU Cooperative Extension for El Paso County at:
(719) 636-8920
Fax (719) 575-8692
305 South Union Blvd Address
Colorado Springs, CO - 80910-3123
Web sitehttp://www.coopext.colostate.edu/elpaso
Email: debbierivera@elpasoco.com