About
Profuse flowers, in large, terminal, cylindrical heads in early spring have petal-like bright yellow-green bracts surrounding the tiny flowers. Evergreen perennial to 1.5m, with vertical or arching biennial stems, leafy throughout at first, then bare, almost woody at the base, densely leafy above, carrying flower heads in the second year. Slender, blue-green, rather downy leaves to 15cm long. May be short-lived, but often self-seeds.
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 sun
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing, East-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH4
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height1-1.5 metres
Spread1-1.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCoastal, Cottage and informal garden, Mediterranean climate plants, Gravel garden, Wildlife gardens
Native toMediterranean
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
CultivationGrow in well-drained, light soil in full sun. See Euphorbia for further advice
PruningCut back flowering shoots to ground level in late summer or autumn
PropagationPropagate by division in early spring or take basal cuttings in spring or early summer; dip cut surfaces in charcoal or lukewarm water to prevent bleeding
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to aphids
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free