About
This frost-tender, evergreen, herbaceous perennial forming a mound with stems to 60cm (2ft) high and wide with green, opposite, elliptical leaves. Attractive, much-branched terminal flower clusters appear from spring to autumn, each consisting of a central green and white female flower, surrounded by conspicuous, male flowers with elliptical, white floral bracts. The plant is often grown as an annual outdoors in cool climates, but where container grown can be overwintered in frost-free conditions.
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 moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing, East-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH2
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitClump forming, Bushy
FoliageEvergreen
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, Gravel garden, Patio and container 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 moist, but well-drained soil, or dry soil in full sun. See Euphorbia for further advice
PruningRemove plants in autumn where grown as an annual outdoors; trim in spring, to maintain a compact habit when grown under glass.
PropagationPropagate by 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