The genus Euphorbia belongs to the spurge family (Euphorbiaceae). It includes more than 2,000 species of herbs, shrubs, and trees, making it one of the largest genera of flowering plants in the world. The main feature of all spurges is their unusual inflorescence called a cyathium, a green-yellow cluster of male and female flowers surrounded by showy bracts (see today’s photograph which was taken at dusk).
Wood spurge is a single-stemmed plant up to 80 cm tall, terminating in branching flower stalks. Wood Spurge sap is toxic and can cause significant damage to skin and eyes on contact. The plant is also toxic if ingested.
Wood spurge is native to Europe where it grows in woodland and shaded hedgerows.