Spotted Spurge (Technically not a grass, but commonly mistaken for one in turf identification)
Euphorbia maculata (syn. Chamaesyce maculata) · Summer Annual Broadleaf, C4 photosynthetic pathway
Grass Family
Euphorbiaceae (Spurge family); not a member of Poaceae
Grass Category
Invasive/Weed. Often found invading Lawns, Turf, and Sidewalk cracks
Variety / Cultivar
None specified; wild-type species
Hardiness Zones
USDA Zones 2-11 (as an annual); germinates when soil temperatures reach 60-65°F.
About This Grass
A low-growing, branched annual that forms dense, circular mats flat against the ground. Stems are pinkish to reddish and exude a milky white sap when broken. Leaflets often feature a small purple spot in the center.
Blade Characteristics
Leaves are small, oval, opposite, and approximately 1/8 to 1/2 inch long. Color is dark green with a characteristic maroon/purple spot on the upper surface; margins are finely serrated toward the tip.
Root System
Central fibrous taproot; shallow but resilient; does not root at nodes. Fast establishment in disturbed or compacted soils.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Native to North America; distributed globally in temperate and tropical regions
Growth Habit
Prostrate, mat-forming, spreading via low-growing stems from a central taproot
Sunlight & Water Needs
Full sun preferred; high drought tolerance. Thrives in heat and can survive in poor, dry, compacted soils where turf grasses fail.
Mowing & Maintenance
Maintenance involves removal by hand or herbicide. Excessive mowing does not control it due to its prostrate growth being below mower height. Requires high maintenance for eradication in lawns.
Special Characteristics
Milky sap is a skin irritant; highly prolific seed producer; salt tolerant; extremely resistant to trampling and mechanical stress; thrives in the heat of summer.
Ecological Information
Native to North America but considered a noxious weed in managed turf. Seeds are occasionally eaten by turtle doves and other small birds, but generally low wildlife value.