The Salt Lake County Health Department has issued a warning to residents to avoid myrtle spurge, an invasive and harmful weed that was initially brought to Utah as an ornamental plant. Despite its original purpose, myrtle spurge has now spread to natural areas and is considered harmful 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 quickly taking over foothills and wild lands in the Wasatch Front area, and can be recognized by its blue-green triangular leaves and milky latex sap. In the spring and summer months, it produces small flowers with yellow bracts. Myrtle spurge spreads through seeds and can project them up to 15 feet.
If you come into contact with myrtle spurge’s white sap, it can cause skin irritation including rashes, redness, swelling, and blisters. It is important to avoid contact with the sap and flush the affected area with water if exposure does occur. The state of Utah classifies myrtle spurge as a noxious weed and restricts its sale.
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