Photo: Johann Georg Sturm (Painter: Jacob Sturm), Public domain · source
Pruning guide · Herbaceous plant
Caper spurge: when and how to prune
Euphorbia lathyris
Caper spurge is best pruned in July–August.
| Pruning months | July–August |
|---|---|
| Flowering | May–August |
| Native to Belgium | Yes |
Caper spurge: when to prune it?
In July–August, before the fruits are ripe, if you do not want seed.
Caper spurge: how to prune it?
- Cut off the umbels with fruits while these are still green, before they burst open.
- Pull up the whole plant after flowering: it dies off anyway.
- Do not leave cut stems where children or animals can reach them; they go in the organic waste bin or general waste.
- Wear gloves, long sleeves and ideally goggles: the sap can spurt.
How much to cut, and how often?
- One pruning period a year: July–August.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- As a native plant, it feeds more insects than a non-native species.
Caution: The milky sap is caustic and highly poisonous. Do not touch your face while working, and wash your hands and tools afterwards.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Plant profile: Caper spurge · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.