As a gardening and landscaping expert, I can confidently say that deer do not typically eat cushion spurge. This plant, also known as Euphorbia polychroma, has several qualities that make it unappealing to deer and other animals.
One of the reasons why deer tend to avoid cushion spurge is its milky sap, which can be toxic and irritating to their digestive systems. This sap contains latex and various chemical compounds that act as a deterrent to grazing animals. While some plants may have a bitter taste that deters deer, cushion spurge takes it a step further with its potentially harmful sap.
In addition to its unpalatable properties, cushion spurge is also a low-growing plant with dense foliage. This growth habit makes it less accessible and attractive to deer, as they prefer taller plants with more exposed leaves and buds. The compact nature of cushion spurge also makes it less likely to be noticed by passing deer, further reducing the chances of them nibbling on it.
Furthermore, cushion spurge is known for its vibrant yellow flowers, which can act as a visual deterrent to deer. Brightly colored flowers often signal to animals that a plant may be toxic or unpalatable. Deer rely on their sense of sight to identify potential food sources, and the bold hue of cushion spurge flowers may dissuade them from approaching the plant.
It’s important to note that while deer generally avoid cushion spurge, there may be instances where hungry or desperate deer will nibble on any available vegetation. In such cases, it’s wise to employ additional deterrents to protect your plants. These can include fencing, repellents, or companion planting with deer-resistant species.
In my personal experience as a gardener, I have seen cushion spurge thrive in areas with high deer populations. Its ability to resist deer browsing makes it an excellent choice for gardens located in deer-prone regions. I have often recommended cushion spurge to clients looking for deer-resistant plants, and they have reported success in keeping deer at bay.
To summarize, cushion spurge is generally not a preferred food source for deer due to its toxic sap, low-growing habit, and visually deterrent flowers. While it’s not completely immune to deer browsing, it is relatively resistant compared to many other plants. By incorporating cushion spurge into your garden, you can enjoy its attractive appearance without worrying too much about deer damage.
