Euphorbia paralias
Sea spurge
Family: Euphorbiaceae
Origin: Eurasia, North Africa
General description
Smooth perennial herb < 1 m tall. Stems are erect, blue/grey maturing to reddish brown and grow from a woody base. Leaves are fleshy, crowded, < 30 x 15 mm and stalkless. 'Flowers' (cyathia) are cup-shaped, yellow-green and borne near stem tips. Seed capsules are dark green maturing to grey-brown and contain three pale smooth seeds.
What you need to know
To help protect our environment:
- You must not breed, distribute, release or sell sea spurge. As sea spurge is an Unwanted Organism, these restrictions apply within the Auckland region and across the whole of New Zealand.
If you see sea spurge anywhere, please report it to the Ministry of Primary Industries on 0800 80 99 66.
Habitats
Coastal areas, estuaries, sand dunes, rocky shorelines.
Dispersal
Seeds dispersed by explosive dehiscence and water. Vegetative spread from root fragments. Human-mediated dispersal through deliberate plantings and movement of contaminated soil, sand and ballast.
Impact on environment
Can form dense infestations, displacing native vegetation and altering habitat structure.
Control
Recommended approaches
Do not attempt to undertake control of this species. The Ministry of Primary Industries will carry out the control of this species.
Caution: When using any herbicide or pesticide please read the label thoroughly to ensure that all instructions and safety requirements are followed.
