Euphorbia (Euphorbia spp.) produces attractive foliage and colorful seasonal flower bracts. It grows as a small shrub or as a groundcover, depending on the variety. Some types of euphorbia grow as annuals, but many thrive as perennials in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 4 through 11, depending on the specific variety. Euphorbia plants have differing growth requirements that vary among the cultivars, but most provide a drought-tolerant, low-maintenance touch of greenery to your landscape.
Grow euphorbia in a well-drained garden bed that receives sufficient sun for the specific variety. Some varieties, like Euphorbia characias, prefer full, all-day sunlight, while other types, such as Euphorbia amygdaloides robbiae, prefers filtered morning sunlight and light afternoon shade.
Water most euphorbia varieties when the top 1 to 2 inches of soil feels dry and provide enough water to moisten the top 6 to 8 inches of the bed. Avoid overwatering that causes waterlogged soil or standing water, because most euphorbia varieties suffer from root rot in overly wet conditions.
Cut off the flowers as soon as they begin to turn yellow to prevent seed formation. Most euphorbia varieties readily self-seed if the old flowers are allowed to mature.
Trim back overgrown euphorbia at any time after flowering. Remove any damaged, dead or overgrown stems and lightly shape the plant. Wear gloves when pruning euphorbia because the sap can cause skin irritation.
Pull any weeds or euphorbia seedlings that sprout around the base of the main plant throughout the growing season. Cover the soil with up to 2 inches of mulch to prevent weeds from growing.
Things You Will Need
- Most euphorbia varieties are easily propagated from seed sown in pots or directly in the garden bed. Deer and other garden pests avoid euphorbia because of its irritating sap.
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