About
Small clusters of yellow-green, cup-shaped flowers, surrounded by green bracts, develop from May to August. An uncommon native biennial or short-lived perennial, found on the coast around Ireland, Wales and south-west England. recognisable red stems, which can reach up to 40cm, carry whorls of narrow, rather fleshy, smooth, blue-green leaves.
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 typeSand
Soil pHAlkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH5
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 usesCoastal, Gravel garden
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 naturally on sand dunes and grassy areas by the sea, so very tolerant of coastal conditions. Needs free-draining soil in a sunny spot
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free