Madwoman's Milk (Euphorbia helioscopia)

Family: Euphorbiaceae | Edibility: Edible (1/5)

Euphorbia helioscopia is a ANNUAL growing to 0.4 m (1ft 4in). It is in flower from May to October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Flies. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Shoots

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Young stems - cooked. Caution is advised, see the notes above on toxicity. Young leaves are used as a tea substitute. — Young stems - cooked.; Caution is advised, see the notes above on toxicity.; Young leaves are used as a tea substitute.

Habitat & North American Range

Common in cultivated ground throughout Britain to an altitude of 450 metres. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)