Caper Spurge (Euphorbia lathyris)

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

Euphorbia lathyris is a ANNUAL/BIENNIAL growing to 1 m (3ft 3in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6. It is in flower from May to June, and the seeds ripen from July to August. The species is monoecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but both sexes can be found on the same plant) and is pollinated by Flies. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Nuts/Seeds

Harvest Seasons: Fall, Late Summer

Flavor & Culinary Uses

The seed has been used as a substitute for capers. It is very acrid and requires long steeping in salt and water, and afterwards in vinegar. Great caution is advised, see the notes above on toxicity. — The seed has been used as a substitute for capers.; It is very acrid and requires long steeping in salt and water, and afterwards in vinegar.; Great caution is advised, see the notes above on toxicity.

Habitat & North American Range

Woods, avoiding acid soils. (Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9)