Euphorbia mellifera (Canary spurge) — Bushy

Overview

Euphorbia mellifera is a bushy shrubs in the genus Euphorbia, part of the Euphorbiaceae family, with evergreen foliage. It typically grows around 1.5-2.5 metres tall and 1.5-2.5 metres wide, reaching full size in around 5-10 years. Euphorbia mellifera grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and any pH. It is drought resistant.

About

Euphorbia mellifera, the Canary spurge or honey spurge, is a species of flowering plant in the spurge family Euphorbiaceae, native to Madeira and the Canary Islands. It is an evergreen shrub or tree growing to 2.5 m (8.2 ft) tall and broad, with narrow leaves up to 20 cm (8 in) long. In spring it produces brown, honey-scented flowers. It has gained the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit. Mature plants reach roughly 1.5-2.5 metres tall and 1.5-2.5 metres wide, carrying evergreen foliage. In the garden it prefers full sun and most soil types. It tolerates soil of any pH, well-drained conditions and south-facing, north-facing, west-facing and east-facing aspects.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Euphorbia mellifera

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Euphorbia

Sunlight: Full sun
Soil type: Chalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pH: Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture: Well-drained
Aspect: South-facing, North-facing, West-facing, East-facing
Exposure: Sheltered

Plant details

Euphorbia mellifera size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: Shrubs
Habit: Bushy
Foliage: Evergreen
Height: 1.5-2.5 metres
Spread: 1.5-2.5 metres
Time to full height: 5-10 years

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Euphorbia mellifera?

Euphorbia mellifera prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.

What soil does Euphorbia mellifera need?

Euphorbia mellifera is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.