About
A native, deciduous, perennial producing new stems from buds on an underground rhizome in spring, to 90cm high. Clusters of small yellow-green, floral bracts are produced spring and summer, followed by copious seed production. The rhizomes can become extensive when mature with deep vertical roots capable of penetrating several metres into the soil.
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, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained, Moist but well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing, East-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitClump forming
FoliageDeciduous
Height1-1.5 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesWildlife gardens
Native toEurope & Temp. Asia
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 in any well-drained soil, in full sun. to partial shade. See Euphorbia for further advice Note: The plant has little or no ornamental value and has become a nuisance in several countries because of its ability to regenerate from its deep root system and copious seed production
PruningCut back old, flowered stems to the ground in late summer and autumn
PropagationPropagate by seed or by division of the underground rhizome in early spring
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free