Petty Spurge is a common plant of cultivated ground such as gardens, fields and waste ground and sometimes considered a weed. It unusual flowers appear between April and October and, when ripe, its seeds are dispersed in an explosive way. The seeds of Petty Spurge are persistent and ones as old as 50, or even 100, years old have reportedly germinated.
Although they sometimes don't look especially wildlife-friendly, our field edges and waste grounds can provide valuable habitats for all kinds of plants and animals. The Wildlife Trusts get involved in different projects to help make these places as beneficial for wildlife as possible. We have a vision of a 'Living Landscape': a network of habitats and wildlife corridors across town and country, which are good for both wildlife and people. You can support this greener vision for the future by joining your local Wildlife Trust.