Asthma Weed, Flea Weed, Beggars Lice
euphorbia hirta
Also known as: ["Flea Weed","Beggars Lice","Hairy Spurge"]
Overview
A small, annual herbaceous plant with hairy stems and leaves, known for its medicinal properties in traditional medicine.
Benefits & Perks
["medicinal use","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Euphorbiaceae |
| Genus: | Euphorbia |
| Botanical Name: | Euphorbia hirta |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in warm, sunny areas or as a potted plant in a sheltered spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with organic matter; cactus or succulent mix is ideal.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: very high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct light; protect from intense midday sun; place in a spot with filtered light if outdoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry between waterings
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix with good drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures between 65–85°F (18–29°C); sensitive to cold drafts and frost.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing in fall/winter.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are the most common method.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Let it callus for a few days.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep warm and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining mix like perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Allow cuttings to callus before planting; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; use sterile tools to prevent disease.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node; wear gloves to avoid skin irritation from sap.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased stems.
Tools
Sharp, clean pruning shears, gloves, disinfectant.
Checklist
Wear gloves; sterilize tools; cut above a node; dispose of pruned material; clean up spills of milky sap.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider) than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil refresh.
Checklist
Prepare new pot with drainage; gently remove plant; trim roots if needed; add fresh soil; water lightly.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; allow excess to drain completely; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water when the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with coarse materials.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in cold; leaf scorch or dehydration in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Growth slows or halts; leaves may turn yellow or drop; risk of root rot due to reduced water uptake.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; reduce watering in cooler conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; soil dries out quickly; increased water demand.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicEuphorbia hirta is toxic to cats, with the latex and other parts containing irritant compounds that can cause severe gastrointestinal distress and irritation. Ingestion can lead to significant health issues requiring prompt veterinary care.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Dogs
ToxicThe latex and other parts of Euphorbia hirta are toxic to dogs, causing gastrointestinal upset and irritation. The plant's irritant compounds can lead to significant discomfort and potential systemic effects if ingested.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Humans
ToxicEuphorbia hirta contains diterpene esters and other irritant compounds in its latex, which can cause severe irritation upon contact with skin or mucous membranes. Ingestion can lead to gastrointestinal distress and systemic effects due to the plant's irritant properties.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested or touched
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Euphorbia hirta toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: What are the traditional uses of Euphorbia hirta?
A: It has been used in traditional medicine to treat respiratory ailments such as asthma and bronchitis.
Q: How easy is it to grow Euphorbia hirta?
A: It is very easy to grow, requiring minimal care and thriving in drought conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Euphorbiaceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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