Wolf's-milk
Euphorbia helioscopia
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
6"–24" H × 4"–12" W
Bloom
Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov
Native to
MT
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Wolf's-milk is a small annual forb with distinctive yellowish-green flower clusters and milky sap. It grows in a compact, upright form and blooms for an exceptionally long season from spring through late fall.
In an HOA neighborhood
Wolf's-milk 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.
- Commonly considered a weed
- Milky sap can be toxic and irritating
- May self-seed aggressively
Wildlife value
The long blooming period provides nectar for bees and beetles throughout most of the growing season.
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.
Does Wolf's-milk fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.