[1] Different species of Euphorbia grow all over the world, either wild, or as cultivated specimens in the house or garden. The milky latex or sap is toxic and may cause intense inflammation of the skin and the eye.

It's essential to plant euphorbia in well-draining soil to prevent root rot. A sandy or rocky soil mix is ideal for their growth. Euphorbias are drought-tolerant and do not need a lot of water. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings, especially during the dormant winter months.

In North America, leafy spurge (Euphorbia esula L.) is a problematic invader that reduces plant diversity and forage production for livestock. Its documented effects on plant communities differ amongst studies, however, potentially due to differences in productivity or land management.

Like many plants, euphorbias can be both poison and cure in one: the seeds of its berries are very poisonous (just one can kill a child); however, a recent drug trial found that it can be very effective against skin cancer, and might yet become a new drug.