Creeping Spurge Euphorbia serpens

Creeping Spurge is an annual weed in the Euphorbiaceae (spurge) family with a low growing, spreading habit and is often found in disturbed sites and urban environments. It is native to south-eastern Canada, tropical/sub-tropical areas of the Americas, and in the south-central U.S.  Euphorbia is named after Euphorbus, a Greek physician who served King Juba of Numidia in 12BC. In Latin, serpens means creeping thing or snake.  Creeping spurge differs from the other prostrate spurges by rooting at the nodes of the stems when they touch the ground, allowing it to grow quickly forming dense mats.  Also, it has smaller, more rounded leaves. 

The plant prefers full sun to partial shade in dry, sandy, loamy or clay soils with a neutral or slightly alkaline pH but will grow in any type of soil.  Wet soil conditions will often cause root rot.  Seedlings are very small but will flower when young.  This plant is a prolific seeder.  Seeds have limited or no dormancy and germinate quickly.  As with all euphorbias, creeping spurge exudes a milky sap from the stems and leaves that can be toxic.

This plant is best found in naturalized areas but considered weedy in lawns and gardens.

Insects, Diseases and Other Plant Problems: Creeping spurge has no serious insect or disease problems. Some people experience skin rashes from contact with the toxic sticky plant sap of euphorbias. 

Management Guidelines for Spurges: Because spurges flower when young and have little or no seed dormancy, weed populations can increase rapidly. Remove plants when young to reduce seed production. They are time-consuming to hand weed due to the number of seedlings that form. Some species may forcefully discharge seeds. Spurges are well-managed by most preemergence herbicides labeled for use.

VIDEO Created by Elisabeth Meyer for "Houseplants, Succulents, and Cacti", a plant identification course offered in partnership with Longwood Gardens.

More information on Euphorbia.