Plant of the Week 11/11/2020

Donkeytail Euphorbia myrsinites Zone 4-8

Also known as Myrtle Spurge, this grey-green succulent is either seen as a nuisance or prized for its beauty. Can reach 18" wide and 8" tall, quickly spreads through very viable seeds that form after flowering. Spiraling, flat foliage surround tender stems that if snapped ooze a milky, white fluid that can cause serious skin irritation. Deer and rabbit resistant.

Thrives in poor soil and rough conditions. Yellow flowers emerge on the heads of each donkey tail. Once the yellow flowers are spent, the center of the spent flower turns red and begins producing seed. With gloves on cut off seeds to prevent plant from rapidly spreading. Blooms once in spring and again in late summer.