About
An evergreen, perennial sub-shrub forming an upright clump of red-brown stems 1m (39in) high, with green-grey, narrowly lance-shaped leaves and terminal panicles of bright yellow-green floral bracts in spring.
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, West-facing, East-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH4
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial, Shrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height1-1.5 metres
Spread1-1.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Mediterranean climate plants, Gravel garden, Patio and container plants, 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
CultivationGrows best in mild areas in light, well-drained soil in full sun. See Euphorbia cultivation for further advice
PruningCut back old, flowered stems to the ground in late summer and 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