Euphorbia punicea (Jamaica fire flower) — Matforming

Overview

Euphorbia punicea is a matforming herbaceous perennial in the genus Euphorbia, part of the Euphorbiaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Euphorbia punicea grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include coastal, city and courtyard gardens, cottage and informal garden and wildlife gardens.

About

Euphorbia punicea is a species of euphorb commonly known as Jamaican poinsettia. It was first described by Olof Peter Swartz in his Nova genera et species plantarum seu prodromus. It grows as a bush or tree three to five meters (10–16 ft) tall, and sometimes much taller. The false flower is in fact a cyathium surrounded by large, colorful bracts. It is native to Caribbean, North America and Jamaica. In the garden it prefers full sun and most soil types. In UK gardens it is fully hardy throughout the UK (RHS H7). Suggested uses include coastal, city and courtyard gardens, cottage and informal garden and wildlife gardens. It tolerates soil of any pH, moist but well-drained, well-drained conditions and south-facing and west-facing aspects. Plant out after last frost in fertile, well-drained soil.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Euphorbia punicea

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Euphorbia

Sunlight: Full sun
Soil type: Chalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pH: Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture: Moist but well-drained, Well-drained
Aspect: South-facing, West-facing
Exposure: Exposed, Sheltered
UK hardiness: H7

Plant details

Euphorbia punicea size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: Herbaceous Perennial
Habit: Matforming
Foliage: Deciduous
Suggested uses: Coastal, City and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Euphorbia punicea

Propagation: Propagation is by division in early spring or propagate by seed in autumn or spring
Pest resistance: Generally pest-free
Disease resistance: May be susceptible to a rust

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Euphorbia punicea?

Euphorbia punicea prefers full sun. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.

What soil does Euphorbia punicea need?

Euphorbia punicea 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 moist but well-drained to well-drained.