Distinctive Blue-Green Leaves
Features attractive blue-green foliage with opposite leaf arrangements that create a unique garden appearance.
Estimated Delivery:Nov 21 - Nov 25
Free Shipping on All Orders
Gopher Purge, scientifically known as Euphorbia lathyris, is an ornamental plant commonly called Caper Spurge or Mole Plant. It is recognized for its upright growth, attractive blue-green foliage, and unusual paired leaves arranged along its stems. This distinctive plant is traditionally associated with gopher and mole deterrence, making it popular among gardeners interested in natural garden planting. It grows well in sunny locations with well-drained soil and can add unique visual interest to ornamental gardens. However, its effectiveness as a gopher repellent has not been scientifically established, and the plant is toxic if ingested.
Features attractive blue-green foliage with opposite leaf arrangements that create a unique garden appearance.
Develops tall, erect stems that provide vertical interest in ornamental garden spaces.
Commonly known as Mole Plant or Gopher Spurge because of its traditional association with garden pest deterrence.
Prefers sunny growing locations and well-drained soil, making it suitable for various outdoor planting areas.
| Scientific Name | Euphorbia lathyris |
| Common Name | Gopher Purge, Caper Spurge, Mole Plant, Gopher Spurge |
| Plant Family | Euphorbiaceae |
| Seed Type | Ornamental Flowering Plant Seeds |
| Plant Type | Annual or Biennial Herbaceous Plant |
| Growth Habit | Upright, erect growth |
| Foliage Color | Blue-Green |
| Flower Color | Greenish-Yellow |
| Plant Height | Approximately 1.5–1.2 meters (varies with growing conditions) |
| USDA Hardiness Zones | Varies by climate and growing conditions |
| Planting Season | Spring or suitable local growing season |
| Seed Starting | Direct sowing or starting in suitable containers |
| Germination Time | Varies with seed freshness and growing conditions |
| Germination Temperature | Follow supplier-specific seed instructions |
| Sunlight | Full Sun |
| Soil Requirements | Well-Drained Soil |
| Watering | Moderate watering during establishment; drought-tolerant once established |
| Plant Spacing | Allow sufficient room for mature plant growth |
| Special Precautions | Toxic if ingested; milky sap can irritate skin and eyes |
Gopher Purge is an unusual ornamental plant valued for its upright structure, blue-green foliage, and distinctive appearance. It can bring architectural interest to sunny garden spaces when grown in suitable soil. Although traditionally associated with gopher deterrence, its effectiveness has not been established through scientific research. Grow responsibly and take precautions when handling this toxic plant.
Discover useful information about Gopher Purge seed planting, traditional gopher deterrence claims, and plant safety.
Gopher Purge is traditionally planted as a natural gopher and mole deterrent, which is why it is commonly called Mole Plant. However, scientific research has not established that planting Euphorbia lathyris effectively repels gophers or protects garden plants. Physical root barriers and other proven pest-management methods are more reliable options.
Gopher Purge can grow approximately 1.5 meters or taller under favorable conditions, depending on its growing environment. It typically produces small greenish-yellow flowers during its flowering season, generally from late spring into early summer in suitable climates.
Yes. Gopher Purge contains irritating milky latex that can cause skin and eye irritation, and the plant is toxic if ingested. Wear protective gloves when handling it, keep it away from children and pets, and avoid planting it in areas where accidental contact or ingestion is likely.