What is spurge laurel?

• Spurge laurel (scientific name: Daphne laureola) is an evergreen shrub.
• It’s also known as Daphne laurel.
• It can grow to 1 m in height and usually forms large clumps.
• It has attractive leaves and fragrant, tubular yellow flowers.
• The flowers appear in the early spring, followed by small black berries. However, most of the year, no flowers or berries may be visible.

The plant is an evergreen shrub and thrives in shade.

Small black berries grow on the plant in Spring.

The plant can grow to 1 metre in height.

Where is it found?

• Spurge laurel thrives on the shady shady forest floor throughout south Vancouver Island. It is also found in other areas of southwestern British Columbia.
• It is commonly sold in nurseries and is popular due to its appearance.
• It is not native to B.C. and was originally imported from Southern Europe, North Africa, or West Asia.

Which parts of the plant are harmful?

All parts of the plant include a toxic compound, including the bark, sap, and berries.

How can I protect myself?

• Wear heavy, water-resistant gloves when handling the plants. Dispose of the gloves after use. (Heavy rubber gloves can be reused if carefully washed with soap and water). Don’t get any sap on your exposed skin.
• Wear water-resistant coveralls or clothing that leaves no skin exposed. Cotton, linen, and many synthetics soak up the plant sap, which can then penetrate to the skin. In one incident, a worker was burned by the sap through his clothing. Plant “hairs” may penetrate thin clothing.
• Wear goggles when disturbing or removing the plants, as small droplets of sap may be released into the air.
• Use caution when transporting waste containing the plants.

How do I apply first aid?

• After skin contact with sap, wash the skin carefully with soap and water.
• Keep the affected skin away from sunlight for at least 48 hours.
• If a rash or blistering develops, consult a doctor.
• Applying an anti-inflammatory cream (e.g., 0.5% hydrocortisone) may reduce skin irritation. These creams are available in most pharmacies.
• In the following months, cover affected areas of the skin with UV-protective clothing. When this is not possible, apply a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. When affected skin is exposed to sunlight, apply sunscreen generously and reapply frequently.
• If sap gets into the eyes, flush with large amounts of water and use sunglasses with UV protection. Then consult a doctor.