Mountain Snow, Ghost Spurge, Ghost Weed

Euphorbia marginata

Physical Characteristics

Euphorbia marginata is a ANNUAL growing to 0.6 m (2ft) by 0.3 m (1ft in) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 4. It is in flower in September. The species is monoecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but both sexes can be found on the same plant) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.

Distribution

Central N. America. A garden escape in S.E. Europe.

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Edible Uses: Gum A latex from the plant is used for chewing[61, 177, 257]. Caution is advised, see the notes on toxicity above.

Medicinal Uses

Astringent Galactogogue Salve Women's complaints Astringent, women's complaints. Used in the treatment of leucorrhoea[4]. An infusion of the crushed leaves has been used as a liniment in the treatment of swellings[257]. An infusion of the plant has been used to increase milk flow in nursing mothers[257]. Any medicinal use of this plant should be carried out with great care, see the notes above on toxicity[257].

Known Hazards

The sap contains a latex which is toxic on ingestion and highly irritant externally, causing photosensitive skin reactions and severe inflammation, especially on contact with eyes or open cuts. The toxicity can remain high even in dried plant material[200]. Prolonged and regular contact with the sap is inadvisable because of its carcinogenic nature[214].