About Euphorbia terracina L.
Euphorbia terracina, commonly called Geraldton carnation weed and False caper, is a perennial herb species belonging to the family Euphorbiaceae. It has a self-supporting growth form and simple, broad leaves. Its flowers are visited by four bee species: Lipotriches brachysoma, Lipotriches natalensis, Lipotriches crassula, and Nomia bouyssoui. This plant produces small three-lobed fruits, with a single seed contained in each lobe. Euphorbia terracina is native to Mediterranean climate regions of Northern Africa, temperate Asia, and parts of Europe. It is classified as an invasive weed in other regions with similar climates, primarily Australia and the U.S. state of California. It uses allelopathy to inhibit the growth of surrounding plants. Euphorbia terracina is toxic to both humans and livestock. Like many other species in the Euphorbia genus, exposure to its milky sap can cause irritation to the skin, eyes, and digestive tracts. In some regions of Algeria, the sap of Euphorbia terracina is used as a treatment for warts. Research has found that this sap shows antioxidative properties.
