About
This deciduous, clump-forming herbaceous perennial producing a mass of basal stems in spring to aprroximately 45cm (18in) high and wide, with dark-green and white-edged leaves, tinged with pink in spring, and terminal clusters of intense, yellow-green floral bracts in spring and summer. In autumn the foliage becomes orange, red and yellow before falling.
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, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing, East-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitClump forming
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens, Patio and container plants, Mediterranean climate plants
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 well-drained soil, in full sun to partial shade. 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 resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free