Colorado Myrtle Spurge

There’s no velvet rope, no paparazzi and no pricey cover charge, but noxious weed Myrtle spurge is definitely an A-lister. That is, the plant is on the Colorado Department of Agriculture’s List A of noxious weed species that “are designated by the Commissioner [of Agriculture] for eradication.”

In the weed world, if you’re an A-lister, eradication is mandatory – whether the plant appears, as myrtle spurge often does, in a decorative rock garden or in pasture land. The plant can grow just about anywhere and is a champion at surviving. Aggressive and competitive, it’s the weed world’s version of Mike Tyson.

Noxious Weed Myrtle Spurge Description

Native to Eurasia, noxious weed Myrtle spurge found its way to the U.S. as an ornamental garden import. It’s often categorized as a succulent due to its thick blue-green leaves and fleshy stems. Yellowish green flowers nestle in a heart-shaped bract, adding subtle allure to a plant that can’t wait to take over entire neighborhoods.

Noxious weed myrtle spurge grows between four and 12 inches tall along a stem that can reach 18 inches in length. A new plant is grown from seed and a single taproot can host several new stems similar to octopus arms.

One of the main challenges with the plant is how easy it is to replant. Just pluck by hand (or paw, hoof, rake, bike tire) and wiggle into a new location. It’s extremely drought tolerant and has been known to thrive on top of a cushion of pine needles.

In addition to an insatiable hunger for land, myrtle spurge also contains a milky sap that can irritate and burn skin and eyes.

As a List A noxious weed, myrtle spurge must be eliminated when identified in Colorado. For more information, contact SprayTech, Colorado noxious weed experts, at 720-248-0000 or fill out our estimate request form.