This is a long-lived perennial with a deep, extensive, creeping root system.
Dense infestations form when numerous systems grow from buds below the soil surface.
When the plant is cut or torn a milky latex flows that can produce blisters on humans and cattle, as well as irritation of the mouth and digestive tract. Leafy spurge causes scours and weakness in cattle and may kill them. However, sheep and goats can graze it. Leafy spurge stems grow 1 to 3 feet tall with linear, alternate bluish-green leaves. Flowers are borne in an umbel and are surrounded by yellowish-green showy bracts.