About

A dwarf, evergreen sub-shrub, to 40cm in height, with dark red stems bearing narrow, grey-green leaves flushed red in winter. Open sprays of lime green flowers, with red eyes, are produced in late spring and early summer.

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, East-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH5

Plant details

Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Mediterranean climate plants, Cottage and informal garden, Gravel garden, Patio and container plants, Wildlife gardens
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. Suitable for containers. See Euphorbia for further advice
PruningCut back flowered shoots to ground level in late summer or autumn
PropagationPropagate by basal cuttings in spring or early summer; dip cut surfaces in charcoal or lukewarm water to prevent bleeding
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to aphids
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to root and stem rots in wet conditions