About

This compact, evergreen perennial sub-shrub maturing to approximately 90cm (3ft) high and 40cm (16in) across bearing stems with narrow, lance-shaped, grey-green leaves and terminal, cylindrical clusters of bright, yellow-green floral bracts in early to late 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
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Gravel garden, Mediterranean climate plants, 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 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