Caper Spurge
Euphorbia lathyris
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Pl. 8DD4 — Euphorbia lathyris
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IOverview
Overview
Caper Spurge, scientifically known as Euphorbia lathyris, is a member of the spurge family (Euphorbiaceae). Native to regions including Amur, China North-Central, Chita, Inner Mongolia, Korea, Manchuria, and Mongolia, this plant thrives in full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate various soil types, from light sandy to heavy clay, but prefers moist conditions. Capable of growing up to 1 meter tall, it is known for its edible seeds, making it a valuable addition to certain culinary practices. Its distinctive feature lies in the milky latex that exudes when any part of the plant is broken, a common trait among Euphorbia species.
Quick answers
What is Caper Spurge?
Caper Spurge, scientifically known as Euphorbia lathyris, is a member of the spurge family (Euphorbiaceae). Native to regions including Amur, China North-Central, Chita, Inner Mongolia, Korea, Manchuria, and Mongolia, this plant thrives in full sun to partial shade.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Caper Spurge thrives in full to partial sun and prefers well-drained soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is drought-tolerant but will grow better with regular moisture. This plant is hardy in zones 5-9 and can reach a height of 1 meter. As an annual or biennial, it requires little maintenance once established. For propagation, seeds are the preferred method. Given its native range across temperate regions, Caper Spurge adapts well to similar climates but may benefit from protection during colder months.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
5-9
Life cycle
Annual, Biennial
Mature size
1.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Caper Spurge for the first time
8steps
Start with Caper Spurge as an easy-to-grow annual for a beginner gardener.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds, small pots or direct planting area, garden gloves.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost, or start seeds indoors about 4 weeks before outdoor planting.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a location with full sun to partial shade. Ensure soil is well-draining; amend if necessary for better drainage.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds 1 cm deep, about 30 cm apart in rows. Alternatively, start indoors and transplant seedlings after they have two sets of true leaves.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep soil moist but not waterlogged during germination. Thin plants to 30-60 cm apart once they are established.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water sparingly, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune spent flowers to encourage more blooms and maintain plant shape. Harvest seeds when they turn brown.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, neglecting to thin seedlings.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Seed
Edible uses: Oil
Other uses:BiomasstextilesoilDynamic accumulator
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
10 native · 20 introduced
Distribution
10 native · 20 introducedDistribution across4 continents· 10 native· 20 introduced
Europe5 regions
introduced (5)AlbaniaBelgiumBulgariaFrancePortugal
Asia5 regions
native (4)ChinaMongoliaPakistanSouth Korea
introduced (1)China
Americas1 region
introduced (1)Bolivia
Africa1 region
introduced (1)Ethiopia
Broader regions
native:Kirgizstan, Amur, Chita
introduced:Arizona, Connecticut, East Himalaya, Argentina Northwest, Argentina Northeast, Chile Central, California, British Columbia, Brazil South, Czechoslovakia
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
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Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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