Leafy Spurge is NOT a Colorful Flower We Want in Montana

• While it may look pretty in a field, leafy spurge is an invasive plant species in Montana
• The plant has been designated a Priority Type 2B by the state, as it is abundant in most of the counties of Montana
• Control of this invasive species is by biological means, or specific livestock that will eat the noxious plant

Leafy Spurge is NOT a Colorful Flower We Want in Montana

Montana is home to an abundance of beautiful flowers, plants, trees and more.  Some of those however are invasive to the state and could even be harmful to you or your pets.

via GIPHY

You've probably seen areas that have been inundated with the yellow/green coloring of flowers from one of those invasive species.  And we should all be doing our best to stamp, spray or have livestock that can deal with it.

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How This Invasive Plant Made it to Montana Lands

Leafy Spurge, or "Mother's Milk" was first introduced to America in the 1820's in the eastern part of the U.S.  As settlers moved West, the plant hitched a ride across most of America.

READ MORE:  What to Know About Hemlock Dangers in Montana Wilds

Unfortunately, this plant likes to have lots of area to bloom in.  And it will wipe out anything that gets in the way.  Including those beloved native plants that we have filling our wildlands in Montana.

Leafy Spurge in Montana is also a Danger to Humans, Livestock and Pets

Just like our pal Hemlock in Montana, Leafy Spurge is also toxic.  The milky substance excreted when the plant stems are broken are hazardous to humans, most livestock including horses, cattle and even our pets.

To learn more about this invasive species, check out our gallery of the plant below.  👇