Introduction
Geraldton carnation weed, false caper and terracina spurge all refer to the species Euphorbia terracina. A large shrub-like herb it forms dense thickets which out compete native species for space, light and nutrients. Its rapid growth and prolific seeding gives it the potential to invade areas of healthy bushland.
Euphorbia terracina is an upright perennial to 1m high, supported by a robust vertical taproot. The shrub-like herb consists of several green to reddish, slender leafy stems which branch at the top to produce 4 or 5 flower stems. Flowers are highly modified, yellow/green cup like structures, quite distinct from the bright green leaves.
In parts of Western Australia Euphorbia terracina is a listed 'Declared Plant' under the Agriculture and Related Resources Protection Act and a 'Pest Plant' under the Local Government Act. Landholders with declared plants are obliged to control them at their own expense whilst declaration as a pest plant authorises the Shire Council to enforce control of the plant.
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Technical enquiries to: kate.brown@wrc.wa.gov.au