Occurrence of Euphorbia maculata L. (Euphorbiaceae) in Poland

Abstract

The distribution of Euphorbia maculata L. (spotted spurge) in Poland was studied on the basis of published and original records as well as digitized herbaria and online databases. This North American species was first observed in the Botanical Garden in Kraków in 1864. Since then, data on 22 localities of E. maculata in Poland have been collected, primarily in the southern and central parts of the country. The species was reported initially from botanical gardens (six locations), where it still grows along roadsides, pathways, and flower beds. It also occurs in ruderal habitats, primarily in cracks between paving stones. Notably, half of the local populations (12) were observed for the first time in 2024-2025. These findings indicate that the species is expanding its range in Poland.