Myrtle spurge
(Euphorbia myrsinites)
Myrtle spurge is a low-growing perennial with trailing fleshy stems. The leaves are fleshy, blue-green, and alternate. Flowers are inconspicuous with yellow-green, petal-like bracts that appear from March to May. Myrtle spurge spreads by seed and plants are capable of projecting seeds up to 15 feet. The plant grows from a taproot, with new stems emerging in early spring and dying back in the winter. Plants can grow up to 8-12 inches high and 12-18 inches in width.
Access the EDDMapS distribution map for Myrtle spurge in Colorado by clicking the image below.
Access the USGS INHABIT suitability model for Myrtle spurge in Colorado by clicking the image below.
INHABIT is an online tool created by the USGS that provides species distribution models for various invasive plant species. The models associate known occurrences of a species with environmental characteristics to create maps that predict habitat suitability, and these maps can be used to assess the potential spread of noxious weeds. Learn more about INHABIT: https://www.usgs.gov/centers/fort-collins-science-center/science/inhabit-a-web-based-decision-support-tool-invasive