British Columbia launches eradication effort for invasive eggleaf spurge in Greater Victoria

The invasive plant eggleaf spurge (Euphorbia oblongata) was first detected in British Columbia in 2022. Provincial records show 46 distinct populations province‑wide, with 34 located in the Greater Victoria area covering about 0.36 hectares.

The plant is listed under the province’s Early Detection and Rapid Response (EDRR) program. When a site is reported, the Ministry of Forests sends contractors to remove the infestation at no cost to landowners. Methods include digging out roots and applying herbicide, while public education encourages early reporting via an online form.

Officials warn the species threatens Garry oak ecosystems, outcompetes native flora, reduces wildlife forage, and its milky sap can irritate skin, eyes and digestive tracts, potentially causing temporary blindness. Invasive‑plant specialist Becky Brown emphasized the need for rapid action, and ecologist Wylie Thomas stressed that “improving early detection is critical to making that rapid response effective.”