About
A broad, evergreen shrub with narrow, lime green leaves with a pale midrib; the lower leaves turn cherry red in autumn. Pale green, honey-scented, flowerheads develop in late spring and early summer, followed by green, knobbly, pea-sized fruit.
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 typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH4
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height1-1.5 metres
Spread1-1.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Gravel garden, Mediterranean climate plants, City and courtyard gardens, Patio and container plants, Wildlife gardens
Native toAzores
FragranceFlower
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
CultivationGrow in well-drained, light soil in full sun. In cold areas grow in a container and overwinter in a cool greenhouse. See Euphorbia for further advice
PruningPruning group 6
PropagationPropagate by seed, or take 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