Definition

Noun: 1. A poisonous Old World plant of the spurge family (Euphorbia lathyris), also known as caper spurge or gopher spurge. It is considered an invasive species in parts of America. Its seeds yield a powerful purgative oil. 2. A showy plant of the spurge family, often referring to the poinsettia (Euphorbia pulcherrima) or similar species, found from the southern United States to Peru.

Usage Examples

• As a common name for Euphorbia lathyris:
  • The gardener warned us that the mole plant is toxic if ingested.
  • Some people plant mole plant in their gardens believing it repels moles and gophers.
• As a common name for a showy poinsettia-type plant:
  • During our hike in Mexico, we saw a wild mole plant with brilliant red bracts.

Advanced Usage

• The term "mole plant" is a common name, not a scientific one, which leads to its application for different species. Context is crucial for understanding which specific plant is meant.
• In horticulture and weed control guides, "mole plant" most frequently refers to the invasive .

Variants and Related Words

• Caper Spurge: Another common name for , referring to the caper-like appearance of its flower buds.
• Gopher Spurge: A name emphasizing its purported use as a repellent for burrowing animals.
• Poinsettia: The most famous cultivated plant within the same genus () that can be referred to by the second definition of "mole plant."

Synonyms

• For : Caper spurge, gopher spurge, myrtle spurge.
• For the showy plant: Poinsettia, Christmas star (for the cultivated variety).

Notes on Meaning

The word "mole plant" has two distinct botanical meanings: 1. Primarily, a toxic, invasive herb from Europe and Asia. 2. Secondarily, a descriptor for ornamental, showy spurges native to the Americas. This dual meaning arises from the informal nature of common plant names, which can vary greatly by region.

Noun

1. poisonous Old World spurge; adventive in America; seeds yield a purgative oil
2. showy poinsettia found from the southern United States to Peru