Overview
Euphorbia ceratocarpa is a bushy herbaceous perennial in the genus Euphorbia, part of the Euphorbiaceae family, with evergreen foliage. It typically grows around 1.5-2.5 metres tall and 1.5-2.5 metres wide, reaching full size in around 2-5 years. Euphorbia ceratocarpa grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. It is a holder of the RHS Award of Garden Merit, attractive to pollinators and drought resistant. Suggested uses include cottage and informal garden, gravel garden and wildlife gardens. It is native to Sicily and S. Italy.
About
Euphorbia ceratocarpa is an upright, evergreen sub-shrub that reaches approximately 170 cm in height and spread, featuring foliage that has a subtle bluish tint. While its primary flowering season spans from mid-summer to mid-autumn, this plant can generate yellow-green blooms throughout the year in temperate environments.
About the genus
Euphorbia encompasses a diverse range of plants, including annuals, perennials, shrubs, and succulents. These species are characterized by their milky sap and small flowers that are surrounded by cupped bracts, which are frequently colorful.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Euphorbia
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Chalk, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, West-facing, East-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H4
Plant details
Euphorbia ceratocarpa size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Herbaceous Perennial, Shrubs
- Habit
- Bushy
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Height
- 1.5-2.5 metres
- Spread
- 1.5-2.5 metres
- Time to full height
- 2-5 years
- Suggested uses
- Cottage and informal garden, Gravel garden, Wildlife gardens
- Native to
- Sicily, S. Italy
- Toxicity
- Humans/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
Pruning and caring for Euphorbia ceratocarpa
- Cultivation
- Grow in well-drained, light soil in full sun. See Euphorbia for further advice
- Pruning
- Cut back flowered stems as they fade
- Propagation
- Propagate by softwood cuttings in spring or early summer; dip cut surfaces in charcoal or lukewarm water to prevent bleeding
- Pest resistance
- May be susceptible to aphids
- Disease resistance
- May be susceptible to root and stem rots in wet conditions
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Euphorbia ceratocarpa?
Grow in well-drained, light soil in full sun. See Euphorbia for further advice.
Where is the best place to plant Euphorbia ceratocarpa?
Euphorbia ceratocarpa prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Euphorbia ceratocarpa need?
Euphorbia ceratocarpa is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
How do I prune Euphorbia ceratocarpa?
Cut back flowered stems as they fade.
How big does Euphorbia ceratocarpa grow?
Euphorbia ceratocarpa reaches a height of 1.5-2.5 metres and a spread of 1.5-2.5 metres. It takes around 2-5 years to reach full size.
Is Euphorbia ceratocarpa hardy in the UK?
Euphorbia ceratocarpa has a UK hardiness rating of H4.
How do I propagate Euphorbia ceratocarpa?
Propagate by softwood cuttings in spring or early summer; dip cut surfaces in charcoal or lukewarm water to prevent bleeding.
Is Euphorbia ceratocarpa good for pollinators?
Yes — Euphorbia ceratocarpa attracts and supports pollinators such as bees and other beneficial insects.
Is Euphorbia ceratocarpa toxic?
Humans/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.