Also known as Asthma Herb · Asthma Plant · Asthma Spurge
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Common Spurge (Euphorbia hirta) is a widespread annual herb known for its medicinal uses and role as a weed in various habitats. It has small, hairy leaves and tiny flowe
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
High
75% intensity
Prefers full sun to partial shade. In very hot climates, some afternoon shade is beneficial.
Moderate
50% intensity
Allow topsoil to dry slightly between waterings. Avoid overwatering.
Well-drained, sandy, loamy, clay
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers average room temperatures, ideally between 18-25°C. Protect from frost.
Low
25% intensity
Feed sparingly during the growing season with a diluted balanced fertilizer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 2/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 2/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Irritant to skin and eyes. Ingestion may cause gastrointestinal upset.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water regularly once the top 2-3 cm of soil is dry. Euphorbia hirta prefers consistently moist soil but avoid waterlogging, as this can lead to root rot.
Reduce watering during cooler months when the plant's growth slows down. Ensure good drainage in the pot.
Prune to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth. Remove any dead, damaged, or leggy stems. Pinching back the tips of young plants will promote a more compact form.
Pruning can be done anytime during the growing season.
Easily propagated from seeds, which are often produced in abundance. Sow seeds directly into well-draining soil in spring.
Cuttings can also be taken from mature plants, but allow the cut end to callus over for a day or two before planting to prevent rot.
Repot when the plant becomes root-bound, typically every 1-2 years. Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one. Use a well-draining potting mix.
Spring is the ideal time for repotting, coinciding with the start of the active growing season.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Common Spurge (Euphorbia hirta)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Euphorbiaceae |
| Genus | Euphorbia |
| Species | Euphorbia hirta |
Similar in genus Euphorbia
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
