Weed of the Week

8-18-08

Prostate spurge, Chamaesyce maculata

                 

Photo credits: Lynn Sosnoskie, University of Georgia, Bugwood.org

 Characteristics:

Family: Euphorbiaceae (Spurge family)

Origin: Native to North America

Description:

• Creeping growth habit forming dense mats

• Stems exude a milky sap when pulled or broken

Stems:

• Reddish brown in color

Flowers:

• Tiny pinkish flowers

• Grouped into clusters at the leaf axils

Leaves:

• Opposite dark green leaves

• Approximately 1/8 to 1/2 inch in length

 

Fruit:

• Three lobed seed pod with 1/25" long seeds

 

Additional information:

Problematic weed in gardening, farming and in dry-land areas.  Mats become dense and take over glower beds.

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