The spurge is very rare, found in not more than 15 different 10 km squares in west Gloucestershire and Monmouthshire, with the Forest of Dean being the stronghold. It has also been recorded rarely in southern England from south Somerset to Kent and is present on mainland Europe, where it is similarly rare and restricted to warm, open, deciduous woods on limestone.

Fragmentation, isolation and further losses of ash-maple woodlands.

Inappropriate management (eg, continued presence or planting of conifers, re-stocking).

In particular, because of the species’ association with open areas and clearings within woods, the decline or cessation of management practices, such as coppicing, is likely to be particularly harmful.

Minimise any further losses of ancient ash-maple woodland.

Ensure appropriate management for existing woodland sites.

Increase extent of ash-maple woodland by 10% through removal of conifers on ancient sites.

Increase extent of ash-maple woodland by 10% through new planting to expand existing ancient woods or link existing semi-natural habitats.