Mole plant, Gopher plant, Caper spurge
euphorbia lathyris
Also known as: ["Mole plant","Gopher plant","Caper spurge"]
Overview
A herbaceous biennial plant with milky sap, known for its ability to deter moles and gophers due to its irritating properties.
Benefits & Perks
["disease resistant","deer resistant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Euphorbiaceae |
| Genus: | Euphorbia |
| Botanical Name: | Euphorbia lathyris |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in a sunny area, or container with adequate drainage
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: moderate
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy, or loamy soil with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically once a year or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate to heavy, depending on growth and desired shape.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates some shade but may become leggy.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight to prevent scorching. Place in a spot with morning sun and afternoon shade if in a very hot climate. Indoors, place near a south-facing window.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; provide shade during peak summer heat; avoid direct sun on hot days.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot; water deeply to encourage root growth.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter for better structure.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F or 18–29°C). Tolerates mild frosts but thrives in warmth.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Fertilize only during active growth; avoid over-fertilizing to prevent salt buildup; flush soil occasionally to remove excess salts.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seeds. Stem cuttings are faster and more reliable.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Let it callus for a few days.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F or 21–24°C), humid, and bright but indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus soil.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can speed up root development.
Timeline
Roots may form in 2–4 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, propagation tray, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Allow cuttings to callus before planting; maintain humidity; use sterile tools.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems back to a leaf node or bud; remove dead or crossing branches.
Pruning Plan
Prune to control size, encourage bushiness, and remove damaged or diseased stems.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves (to avoid latex sap irritation), sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; wear gloves; cut at a 45-degree angle; dispose of pruned material safely.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Use well-draining soil; gently tease out roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot. Euphorbia lathyris can become invasive, so container growth may be preferred.
Checklist
Choose a new pot; prepare fresh soil; water lightly after repotting; place in a shaded area for a few days.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Water until it drains from the bottom, but avoid waterlogging. Water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 1–2 weeks during active growth, reducing frequency to once a month in winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, sand, or gravel to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or wilting in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and may cause leaf drop or damage if below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from frost; use a heat source if necessary.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced growth if above 90°F (32°C).
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; fertilize during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring to summer). Avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicEuphorbia lathyris is toxic to cats, with the milky sap and seeds being the most hazardous parts. Ingestion can cause severe gastrointestinal irritation and systemic effects due to the plant's irritant compounds.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe milky sap and seeds of Euphorbia lathyris are toxic to dogs, causing gastrointestinal upset and potential systemic irritation. The plant's latex can be particularly harmful if ingested.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicEuphorbia lathyris contains diterpene esters and other irritants that 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 latex content.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten or touched
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Euphorbia lathyris safe for pets?
A: No, it is toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Why is it called the mole plant?
A: It is believed to deter moles and gophers due to its irritating sap.
Q: How easy is it to grow?
A: It is very easy to grow and requires minimal maintenance.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Euphorbiaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
