ASK DIARMUID

QWe have recently moved to Ludlow in Shropshire and have this tall lush green plant, but we have no idea what it is. Hoping you will be able to solve the mystery.

Kathleen

Yes, this is Euphorbia lathyris, a member of the spurge family. It’s sometimes known as the caper spurge because the little clusters of fruits turn brown and look similar to capers. It’s a biennial so will hope to set seed in your garden this year and create a mini-forest of euphorbias. I’d recommend removing now if you don’t want this to happen.

Use gloves as, similar to other euphorbias, the stems contain a milky latex that can burn the skin – so handle with caution. It’s also referred to as the mole plant as it is thought to deter moles that don’t like its scent.

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