Spurge laurel, Daphne laureola

  • Now a Class B Noxious Weed,  designated in areas where it has not spread, including:
    • Regions 3,4,6,7,8,9, and 10
    • San Juan, Snohomish, and Skagit counties of Region 2
    • Region 5, except King and Kitsap counties
  • Already a serious concern in British Columbia, spurge laurel has been listed because it is a threat to native forest ecosystems. Although wild populations appear to be increasing, there is still an opportunity to prevent and control its spread in much of the state.
  • The listing proposal came from Dr. Sarah Reichard from the UW-Center for Urban Horticulture, who has been the State Monitor for this plant for several years.
  • To read or download the Written Findings for Daphne laureola, please click here.
  • Have you seen escaped spurge laurel populations where you live? We are seeking distribution information so that we can best determine which areas should be designated for control. Please contact us at noxiousweeds@agr.wa.gov or 360-902-2082, or contact your county weed control program.

closeup of spurge laurel leaves and fruits

Spurge laurel is rapidly spreading in in British Columbia and the pacific northwest. It poses a threat to native ecosystems, including Douglas fir forests and  Garry oak woodlands, and is particularly problematic in San Juan County. The shrubs can produce dense patches that can block sunlight and compete with native plants for water and nutrients. Image courtesy of Jake Pool and taken on Vancouver Island.

A close-up of spurge laurel's glossy leaves and unripe, green fruits. Once used as an ornamental shrub, it is rarely seen in nurseries today. This shrub has toxic compounds in the berries, bark, and sap, so use extreme caution when cutting this plant and keep berries away from children and pets.


Spurge laurel is a shrub that typically reaches a maximum height of six feet.

 

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