Allegheny Mountain Spurge, scientifically known as Euphorbia palustris, is a perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the family Euphorbiaceae. This species is native to eastern North America, particularly found in the Allegheny Mountains region, hence the common name.
Typically, Allegheny Mountain Spurge grows in a clump-like form, reaching an average height of 1 to 3 feet (30 to 90 cm). It possesses slender, erect stems adorned with alternate, lanceolate leaves that have serrated edges. The foliage of this plant is deep green, providing an attractive backdrop for the small, inconspicuous flowers it produces.
The flowering period occurs during late spring and early summer when the plant showcases clusters of tiny green flowers, which are often surrounded by distinctive, star-shaped bracts. These bracts range in color from pale green to yellow, creating a visually appealing contrast against the dark green leaves.
In regards to its preferred habitat, Allegheny Mountain Spurge thrives in moist, woodland environments, including marshes, wet meadows, and stream banks. It prefers well-drained soils rich in organic matter, although it can withstand periodic flooding. This species is known to be relatively low-maintenance and adaptable to a wide range of environmental conditions, making it suitable for ornamental planting in gardens and landscape designs.
However, it is important to note that Allegheny Mountain Spurge contains a milky sap that can cause skin irritation and may even be toxic if ingested, so caution should be exercised when handling or planting this species.
