Eyebane facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Eyebane |
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| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Euphorbia
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| Species: |
nutans
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Euphorbia nutans is a type of plant often called eyebane or nodding spurge. It belongs to the Euphorbia family. This plant grows naturally in many parts of North America, including the United States, Eastern Canada, Mexico, Central America, the Caribbean, and Venezuela.
Contents
Where it Grows
This plant is native to a large area. You can find it growing naturally across much of the United States and Eastern Canada. It also thrives in Mexico, Central America, the Caribbean islands, and Venezuela.
Introduced Areas
Euphorbia nutans has also spread to other parts of the world. It is now found in some areas of Europe, the Middle East, Japan, and New Zealand. It was also brought to California.
Noxious Weed Status
In places where it has been introduced, this plant can sometimes become a noxious weed. This means it can grow too much and cause problems for other plants. It often grows in places where the ground has been disturbed. You might also see it in garden beds.
What it Looks Like
Euphorbia nutans is an annual herb. This means it completes its entire life cycle in one growing season. It grows upright and has pairs of long, oval-shaped leaves along its stems.
Leaves and Stems
The leaves of this plant can be up to 3.5 centimetres (1.4 in) long. They might be hairy or smooth. The edges of the leaves are usually finely toothed, meaning they have small, sharp points.
Flowers and Fruit
The flowers of Euphorbia nutans can grow alone or in groups. Each flower cluster is called a cyathium. It has flat, white or red parts that surround the actual tiny flowers.
At the center of these parts are several male flowers. These are called staminate flowers. They surround one female flower, which is called a pistillate flower. The female flower later turns into a fruit. This fruit is a small capsule, about 2 millimetres (0.079 in) wide.
See also
In Spanish: Euphorbia nutans para niños
