About
A softly downy evergreen perennial to 75cm tall, with deep purple stems and leaves, and contrasting lime-green flowers opening at the ends of the leafy stems in spring and early summer.
About the genus
Euphorbia can be annuals, perennials, shrubs or succulents, with milky sap and small flowers held within cupped, often colourful bracts
Growing conditions
SunlightFull shade, Full sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectWest-facing, East-facing, South-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens
ToxicityHumans/Pets: IRRITANT to skin/eye, harmful if eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. For further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants
Care notes
CultivationAn easy-to-grow plant that will cope with most conditions even dry shade. It spreads by rhizomes has the potential to become a nuisance if not managed well. See Euphorbia for further advice
PruningCut back flowering shoots to ground level in late summer or autumn
PropagationPropagate by division in spring
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to aphids
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to grey moulds