Spurge

The name spurge dates from Middle English. It is a  shortening of the Old French espurge, itself derived from the Latin expurgare meaning to cleanse. This all relates the purgative properties of the milky latex, or sap, which is produced when the plant is damaged and which probably functions to deter herbivorous animals.

The tiny flowers, 3-4 mm in size, emerging from the centres of the leaves contain just the essential parts needed for sexual reproduction. They have no sepals, petals, or other parts typical of flowers in most kinds of plants. They are reduced to just male stamens, the female pistil and colourful glands that produce nectar to attract pollinators.