Snow-on-the-Mountain

Q. We have about a 8' x 16' landscaped area in the front of our house. This area contains various shrubs and grasses and is covered with mulch. Unfortunately the previous home owners planted some "snow on the mountain" which has taken over in this area. Every year we try and pull it all out but invariably we miss some and it comes back stronger than ever. I'm afraid to hit it with week killer because I can't find the direct root and I may wind up hurting the other plants. Any thoughts on how we can permanently get rid of this plant?

A. You are so right about its evasive properties. Once established it is almost impossible to get rid of. It becomes a true weed. You must dig up each plant all season long and prevent any from flowering as the seed is what overwinters if you have cold winters [you did not state where you live]. Otherwise it will come up again and again from its roots system.

I can only state that you have to be diligent and weed it out every 3-4 days. Any lapse and its hold will be strengthened if no plants are ever allowed above ground it will die due to lack of food and seeds will not be produced. Unless you can dig out your desired plants you must weed around them. The alternative is to dig out what you desire plant them elsewhere and treat the entire mess with Roundup or a similar weed killer product. The following season you can check for any hangers-on and replant with what you desire.

SNOW-ON-THE-MOUNTAIN [Euphorbia marginata] is a common garden ornamental. Ingestion causes intense burning of the mouth throat & stomach uncontrollable salivation and sometimes more serious symptoms. Some people find casual handling causes skin irritation as well. It's not a bad idea to wear gloves when tending these plants in the garden. This plant emits a milky fluid that is poisonous causing an inflammation of the skin similar to that seen with poison ivy.

It is a Hardy Annual. Zones 1-11. Grown for its striking foliage and mostly white flower bracts. Used to cover dry banks and other difficult areas mixed bed borders or the cutting bed. This hardy plant may also be used as a groundcover and will block out weeds with its vigorous growth. Tolerates a wide range of soil conditions from rich to poor moist to dry baking sun or light shade.