Sea Spurge

Scientific Name: 
Euphorbia paralias

Sea Spurge is a common plant of sand dunes and coastal areas, especially in southern England and Wales. It flowers between June and October and has fleshy leaves which help the plant retain water in the arid conditions in which it thrives. It is a popular plant among gardeners in coastal areas when creating salt-tolerant gardens and rockeries.

How to identify: 
The greeny-yellow flowers of Sea Spurge have no petals or sepals but are held in cup-shaped bracts. The upright stems carry closely packed, rounded, fleshy, grey-green leaves.
Where to find it: 
Limited distribution around parts of the UK and Irish coastline, not often found growing in Scotland.
How people can help: 

The Wildlife Trusts look after many coastal habitats for the benefit of all kinds of wildflowers, such as Sea Spurge, and are working closely with farmers, landowners and developers to promote wildlife-friendly practices in these areas. 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.

Statistics: 
Height: up to 60cm
Conservation status: 
Common.
Did you know?: 
As with other spurges, Sea Spurge produces a milky white sap which is toxic; in other parts of the world, these saps have been used to tip poisoned arrows.
Seasons: 
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter
When to see
Start date: 
January
End date: 
December
Image: 
Sea spurge - waen