Euphorbia amygdaloides var. robbiae

Names

• Family

  Euphorbiaceae

• Synonyms

  Robb's Spurge, Mrs. Robb’s Bonnet, Wood Spurge

• Common names

  Tithymalus amygdaloides var. robbiae, Euphorbia robbiae.

Toxicity

• To humans

  Wood Spurge contains a milky sap that is toxic to humans. The sap can cause skin irritation upon contact, resulting in redness, swelling, and blisters. If ingested, the sap can lead to severe inflammation of the mouth, throat, and stomach, causing symptoms such as burning pain, vomiting, and diarrhea. In some cases, it may also cause difficulty swallowing, fever, and symptoms of systemic toxicity. Care should be taken to avoid contact with the sap and to prevent ingestion of any part of the plant, as all parts are considered toxic.

• To pets

  Wood Spurge is also toxic to pets, including dogs and cats. Similar to its effects on humans, the plant's milky sap can cause irritation and possibly chemical burns if it comes into contact with the skin or fur of an animal. If ingested, the sap can cause symptoms such as drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. In severe cases, it could lead to more serious signs such as weakness, convulsions, and may be fatal if treatment is not sought promptly. It is important to prevent pets from chewing on or ingesting any part of the plant.

Characteristics

• Life cycle

  Perennials

• Foliage type

  Evergreen

• Color of leaves

  Green

• Flower color

  Yellow

• Height

  1-2 feet (30-60 cm)

• Spread

  1-2 feet (30-60 cm)

• Plant type

  Shrub

• Hardiness zones

  6-9

• Native area

  Turkey

General Benefits

• Low Maintenance: Euphorbia amygdaloides var. robbiae, commonly known as Wood Spurge, requires minimal care once established, making it an ideal choice for gardeners seeking low-maintenance plants.
• Drought Tolerant: Wood Spurge is highly adaptable to dry conditions, making it suitable for gardens in areas with water scarcity or for xeriscaping purposes.
• Shade Tolerance: This variety of Euphorbia thrives in partial to full shade, providing an excellent ground cover in shaded areas where other plants might struggle.
• Ground Cover: Its ability to spread and form a dense mat makes it effective at suppressing weeds, reducing garden maintenance.
• Attracts Pollinators: The flowers of Wood Spurge can attract beneficial insects to the garden, such as bees, helping to pollinate surrounding plants.
• Deer Resistant: Euphorbia amygdaloides var. robbiae is not a favorite among deer, which helps to prevent damage to the garden from grazing.
• Erosion Control: The plant's spreading habit and root system can help stabilize soil and prevent erosion on slopes and banks.
• Year-Round Interest: With its evergreen foliage and attractive spring blooms, Wood Spurge adds color and structure to the garden throughout all seasons.
• Architectural Shape: The distinct shape and texture of Euphorbia amygdaloides var. robbiae provide an architectural element to garden design, adding aesthetic value.
• Companion Planting: Wood Spurge works well when planted alongside other shade-loving plants, creating a diverse and harmonious woodland garden setting.

Medical Properties

• This plant is not used for medical purposes.

Air-purifying Qualities

This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.

Other Uses

• Euphorbia amygdaloides var. robbiae, commonly known as wood spurge, can be used in garden design for its textural foliage, providing a lush backdrop to flowering plants.
• The sap of wood spurge has been historically used as a fish poison. When introduced into small bodies of water, it can temporarily stun fish, making them easier to catch.
• In some cultures, the latex-like sap of the wood spurge has been used as a traditional adhesive or glue for various crafting purposes.
• The vigorous nature of wood spurge makes it a suitable plant for erosion control on slopes or areas prone to soil degradation.
• Wood spurge can be used as a living mulch to suppress weeds in the garden due to its dense growing habit.
• The distinct, evergreen foliage of wood spurge provides winter interest in gardens where seasonal color is lacking during the colder months.
• Wood spurge may serve as a cover plant in forest restoration projects to help establish a more diverse understory until other plants can take hold.
• As a drought-resistant plant, wood spurge can be used in xeriscaping, a landscaping method that reduces or eliminates the need for irrigation.
• In some regions, the dried seed capsules of wood spurge can be used in floral arrangements for their unique texture and visual interest.
• Wood spurge's propensity to spread can be harnessed to fill the spaces between stepping stones or pavers, creating a living join that can tolerate light foot traffic.

Feng Shui

The plant Wood Spurge is not used in Feng Shui practice.

Zodiac Sign Compitability

The plant Wood Spurge is not used in astrology practice.

Plant Symbolism

• Hardiness and Adaptation: Euphorbia amygdaloides var. robbiae, commonly known as Wood Spurge, is a resilient plant that thrives in challenging conditions including shade and tough soil. Its ability to adapt symbolizes hardiness and the capacity to endure and flourish in difficult situations.
• Protection: The milky sap of Wood Spurge can be irritating to the skin and eyes, which gives it the symbolic meaning of protection and defense. It represents a natural barrier against harm and negative influences.
• Persistence: Wood Spurge has a tenacious growing nature, symbolizing persistence and determination. It reflects an individual’s ability to persist through adversity, constantly pushing forward and growing.