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Toothed Spurge

Euphorbia davidii

Last reviewed: June 2026

Toothed Spurge (Euphorbia davidii)
Photo: Patrick Alexander from Las Cruces, NM / Wikimedia Commons (CC0)

Light

full sun

Water

low

Size

6"–24" H × 6"–18" W

Bloom

Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep

Native to

AZ, CA, MI, NM

Pollinators

bees, beetles

Browse plants for this ecoregion

Toothed spurge is a small annual wildflower that forms compact, bushy clumps with small green flowers from summer through fall. This drought-tolerant native thrives in sunny, dry locations and requires minimal care once established. Like other spurges, it produces a milky sap that can be irritating to skin.

In an HOA neighborhood

Toothed Spurge 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.

  • Often considered a weed by non-native plant enthusiasts
  • Small flowers and weedy appearance may look unkempt
  • Annual nature means gaps in coverage each spring

Wildlife value

The small flowers attract native bees and beetles throughout the growing season. Its seeds provide food for small birds and ground-dwelling wildlife.

Common questions

How much sun does Toothed Spurge need?
Toothed Spurge grows best in full sun conditions.
When does Toothed Spurge bloom?
Toothed Spurge blooms in June, July, August, and September.
Where is Toothed Spurge native?
Toothed Spurge (Euphorbia davidii) is native to AZ, CA, MI, NM, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
What pollinators does Toothed Spurge attract?
Toothed Spurge draws bees and beetles.
Is Toothed Spurge HOA-friendly?
Toothed Spurge 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 Toothed Spurge? 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