Definition

Noun: * A poisonous plant: "Caper spurge" is the common name for Euphorbia lathyris, a species of spurge native to southern Europe, northwest Africa, and parts of Asia. It is considered poisonous and has become established (adventive) in other regions, including the Americas. Its seeds contain an oil with strong purgative (laxative) properties.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The caper spurge in the garden is easily identified by its blue-green leaves arranged in cross patterns.
  • Farmers consider caper spurge a toxic weed that can harm livestock if ingested.
  • Historically, the oil from caper spurge seeds was used as a powerful purgative in herbal medicine.

Advanced Usage

• Botanical Context: In botanical and horticultural writing, "caper spurge" is used to discuss invasive species, toxic plants, or historical medicinal uses. It is often referred to by its scientific name, , for precision.
  • The study focused on the invasive potential of Euphorbia lathyris, commonly known as caper spurge.

Variants and Related Words

• Scientific Name:
• Common Aliases: Mole plant, gopher spurge, myrtle spurge (these names often refer to its purported use in repelling burrowing animals).
• Spurge (n): The common name for plants in the genus , which includes caper spurge. Many spurges have a milky, often irritating latex sap.
• Purgative (n/adj): A substance that causes vigorous emptying of the bowels; having such an effect.

Synonyms

• Mole plant
• Gopher spurge
• Euphorbia lathyris (scientific name)

Notes on Meaning

• Primary Meaning: The term specifically refers to the poisonous plant , noted for its purgative seed oil and status as an adventive species.
• Etymology: The name "caper spurge" is somewhat misleading, as the plant is not related to the caper bush (). The name may derive from the resemblance of its flower buds to capers before they open.

Noun

1. poisonous Old World spurge; adventive in America; seeds yield a purgative oil