In the Wasatch Front area, a warning is being issued by the Salt Lake County Health Department against residents to steer clear of myrtle spurge. This invasive and harmful weed was originally brought to Utah as an ornamental plant, but has now spread to natural areas and is considered detrimental to plants and wildlife. The SL County Health Department advises against touching or removing this plant without proper safety measures due to its invasive nature.
Myrtle spurge is easily recognizable by its blue-green triangular leaves and milky latex sap. In the spring and summer months, it produces small flowers with yellow bracts. This plant can spread through seeds and project them up to 15 feet, making it a dangerous threat to the environment.
It’s not just the environment that’s at risk from myrtle spurge – human skin can also suffer from contact with its white sap. Exposure can cause skin irritation, including rashes, redness, swelling, and blisters. To avoid these effects, it’s important to avoid contact with the sap and flush any affected areas with water if exposure does occur.
The state of Utah classifies myrtle spurge as a noxious weed and restricts its sale. If you have any information about this dangerous plant or any other topic you want to share with KSL NewsRadio team, please do not hesitate to contact us.
