Euphorbia terracinaCommon name: Geraldton Carnation Weed
Meaning of name: Euphorbia is named after the Greek physician Euphorbus (1st century B.C.), who discovered the medicinal use of the plant as an emetic or vesicant. Terracina is named after the place name of Terracina, Italy.
Distribution: Occurs from Northampton to Esperance.
Description: An erect herb to 80 centimetres tall. The yellow-green flowers are produced from August to October.
Notes: Native to the Mediterranean. The milky sap is toxic and irritating.
References: Western Weeds, A Guide to the Weeds of Western Australia. BMJ Hussey, GJ Keighery, J Dodd, SG Lloyd, RD Cousens. 1997.
Western Australian Plant Names and their Meanings, a Glossary. FA Sharr. 1996.
Euphorbia terracina showing the distinctive pink/red colouring to stem.
Euphorbia terracina with yellow/green bracts and flowers.
