Appearance
Myrtle spurge is an evergreen perennial. It has sprawling stems growing to 20-40 cm long. The leaves are spirally arranged, fleshy, pale glaucous bluish-green, 1-2 cm long. The flowers are inconspicuous, but surrounded by bright sulphur-yellow bracts; they are produced during the spring.Plants spread primarily by seed and are capable of projecting seed up to 15 feet.
Naming
The specific epithet "myrsinites" is derived from the Greek word, which was used in Dioscorides's "De Materia Medica" to describe its similarity to, aka myrtle. It often mistakenly refers to another genus "Myrsine", whose name is also derived from the Greek name of myrtle.
Distribution
The plant is native to southeastern Europe and Asia Minor, from Italy east through the Balkans to the Crimea and Turkey.
Defense
The plant's milky sap can cause significant skin and eye irritation in humans. Goggles, gloves and protective gear is often used when removing plants. Children are more susceptible than adults to symptoms from myrtle spurge, suggesting play areas not in proximity to the species. Pets can have similar reactions to myrtle spurge sap exposure.The species can be strongly allelopathic, preventing other plants from growing nearby.
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