Euphorbia pekinensis

Euphorbia pekinensis, known as Da Ji, belongs to the spurge family, Euphorbiaceae. It is a perennial from temperate parts of eastern Asia. Its native range runs from the Russian Far East to China and Japan. Plants For A Future also lists Korea within its range. In central and southern Japan, it grows in grassy places. These sites occur in both lowlands and mountains. It is not native to Britain or Ireland.

The plant reaches about 2 feet [0.6 metres] in height. It flowers from May to July. Its flowers have both male and female organs. Insects carry pollen between the flowers. The supplied species records give few details about its appearance. They do not describe its leaves, stems, or fruit. Plants For A Future notes that the species varies in form. It lists cultivated beds as a place to grow it.

Choose a sunny site, as this plant cannot grow in shade. It suits sandy or loamy soil with good drainage. It accepts mildly acid, neutral, and mildly alkaline soils. The soil can be dry or moist. Plants For A Future lacks firm evidence for its British hardiness. It suggests outdoor growth may suit much of Britain. That view rests on its native range, not confirmed hardiness trials. No precise hardiness zone is given in the supplied evidence.

Plants For A Future recommends sowing seed in a cold frame in spring. Move seedlings into their own pots once large enough to handle. Keep young plants in a greenhouse through their first winter. Plant them outside in late spring or early summer. Wait until the last expected frost has passed. The supplied species records do not identify particular pests or diseases.

No edible uses are recorded, and the plant poses clear health risks. Its latex sap is poisonous if swallowed and can inflame skin. Contact may cause skin reactions linked to sunlight. Eyes and open cuts are at particular risk. Dried plant material can remain toxic. Chinese medicine uses the root as a strong purgative and diuretic. These uses can cause serious side effects. They are not grounds for home treatment. Plants For A Future advises qualified supervision for medicinal use.