American Ipecac
Euphorbia ipecacuanhae
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part sun
Water
low
Size
6"–12" H × 6"–12" W
Bloom
Apr, May, Jun
Native to
CT, DE, GA, MA and 7 more states
Pollinators
beetles, flies
American ipecac is a small native perennial that forms neat clumps of oval leaves close to the ground. It produces small white flowers in spring and early summer, then dies back to ground level in winter.
In an HOA neighborhood
American Ipecac takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Completely disappears in summer dormancy
- Inconspicuous flowers may look weedy
- Euphorbia family has mixed reputation
Wildlife value
This plant attracts beetles and flies during its spring blooming period. Its small stature makes it less significant for wildlife compared to larger native plants.
Common questions
- How much sun does American Ipecac need?
- American Ipecac grows best in part sun conditions.
- When does American Ipecac bloom?
- American Ipecac blooms in April, May, and June.
- Where is American Ipecac native?
- American Ipecac (Euphorbia ipecacuanhae) is native to CT, DE, GA, MA and 7 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does American Ipecac attract?
- American Ipecac draws beetles and flies.
- Is American Ipecac HOA-friendly?
- American Ipecac takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow American Ipecac? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz