Please examine my photo and check the ID. I've not encountered this plant before and pictures I have found are not in this season. I was under the impression that it was supposed to have a milky sap. It does not seem to.

Reporter
Nov. 16, 2013, 2:35 a.m.

November 27, 2013

Ms Smith,

I wanted to thank you again for submitting this report to the Oregon Invasive Hotline. Spurge laurel is a priority weed species in Clackamas County and we are working hard to control this plant whenever we find it. It is encouraging to hear that the infestation was limited to only one plant, but it also demonstrates that there is likely another infestation nearby. As such we will be surveying that area to control these species.

In terms of your questions regarding the sap of Spurge laurel. It is not milky. Milky sap is common for members of the Spurge family (Euphorbiaceae), but Spurge laurel is actually a member of the Daphne Family (Thymelaeaceae). The sap is clear, and can cause severe skin irritation, if it comes in contact with your skin. So take precautions.

If you know of private landowners in your area with infestations please have them contact the Conservation District for assistance controlling this species. We currently have a program that can offer control, free of charge to impacted landowners.

For more information about Spurge laurel, please Check out the Oregon department of Agriculture's webpage on Spurge laurel. http://www.oregon.gov/ODA/PLANT/weeds/Pages/profile_spurgelaurel.aspx

Once again I appreciate your efforts in reporting this plant. All the best,

Samuel Leininger
WeedWise Program Manager
Clackamas Soil & Water Conservation District
221 Molalla Ave. Suite 102
Oregon City, OR 97045
503-210-6006
sleininger@conservationdistrict.org
www.conservationdistrict.org

Samuel Leininger
Nov. 27, 2013, 5:10 a.m.