Noxious Weed Facts
- Leafy spurge is a creeping perennial that reproduces by seed and root buds, so it can re-sprout even after you think it’s gone.
- Can cut cattle carrying capacity by ~50–75% on rangeland/pastures.
- Its deep, nutrient-packed root system makes it tough to kill; best results come from a 4–5 year integrated management plan, then ongoing monitoring/maintenance.
Leafy spurge is a creeping perennial that reproduces from seed and vegetative root buds. The erect plant grows 1-3′ tall. Leaves are bluish-green with smooth margins, 0.25-0.5″ wide and 1-4″ long.
Umbel flowers surrounded by heart-shaped, showy, yellow-green bracts. Flowers occur in many clusters toward top of plant.
Seeds are round to oblong, about 1/2″ long, gray or mottled brown with dark line on one side.
This difficult to control plant can reduce cattle carrying capacity of rangeland or pastures by 50-75%.
The extensive root system of leafy spurge has vast nutrient stores that let it recover from control attempts.
A management scheme combining control methods over 4-5 years is recommended. Even after that time, monitor infestations for recurrence and adopt a maintenance program.
Contact CSU Extension Gilpin County for specific herbicide recommendations.
Important notes:
- Leafy spurge greatly reduces grazing capacity
- The plant has an extensive and persistent root system
- Be aware of its irritating milky sap (wear gloves)