About
A clump-forming perennial to 70cm tall, with lance-shaped purple leaves turning red in autumn, and small yellow flowers in 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
SunlightPartial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectNorth-facing, East-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height1-2 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Coastal, Cottage 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
CultivationTolerant of dry soil but best grown in moist, humus-rich soil in light dappled shade. See Euphorbia for further advice
PruningTidy up plant after flowering
PropagationPropagate by seed in containers in a cold frame as soon as ripe or in spring; divide in early spring or take basal cuttings in spring or early summer
Pest resistanceAphids may be troublesome
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to grey moulds