Mexican Shrubby Spurge (Euphorbia cotinifolia): Smoke Tree Lookalike

Euphorbia cotinifolia, called Mexican Shrubby Spurge or Red Spurge, is a fast-growing shrub or small tree from the Euphorbiaceae family, prized for its deep burgundy-red, rounded leaves that resemble a smoke tree (Cotinus).

Growing 10 to 15 feet tall in frost-free climates, it produces small, inconspicuous flowers surrounded by colorful bracts. It thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, drought-tolerant once established. Excellent for hedges, screens, or as a specimen. Caution: milky sap is toxic and irritating.

Taxonomic Details