Spotted Spurge (Not a True Grass)
Euphorbia maculata · Warm-season, Annual (Broadleaf Weed, C4)
Grass Family
Euphorbiaceae
Grass Category
Invasive/Weed Grass (Broadleaf Weed)
Variety / Cultivar
Wild type
Hardiness Zones
USDA Hardiness Zones 3 through 10
About This Grass
Forms a flat, circular mat radiating outward from a central taproot. Features small, opposite oval leaves often with a dark reddish-purple spot in the center and milky sap when broken.
Blade Characteristics
Not a grass; has small, oval, opposite broadleaf leaves rather than grass blades.
Root System
Deep central taproot with branching surface stems, making hand-pulling necessary to remove completely.
Growing Information
Origin Region
North America, widely naturalized globally
Growth Habit
Prostrate, mat-forming annual weed spreading via surface stems
Sunlight & Water Needs
Thrives in full sun and dry, compacted soils; highly drought-tolerant once established.
Mowing & Maintenance
Low-profile growth allows it to survive low mowing; controlled best by pre-emergent herbicides and hand-pulling.
Special Characteristics
Produces a milky, irritating latex sap when broken; highly prolific seed producer capable of invading thin turf and landscape beds.
Ecological Information
Acts as a troublesome agricultural and turf weed, though provides minor ground cover in disturbed native soils.