About
This compact, evergreen, perennial sub-shrub, forming a mound of stems to 60cm (24in) high and 45cm (18in) in diameter, bearing lance-shaped leaves, red-purple when young and dark, purple-green when mature. Bright, yellow-green heads of floral bracts are born on red stems 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, West-facing, East-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial, Shrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.5-1 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
CultivationGrows best in mild areas in light, well-drained soil in full sun. See Euphorbia for further advice
PruningCut back old, flowered stems to the ground in late summer and autumn
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