Euphorbia polychroma cushion spurge

Euphorbia - spurge represents a large family of plants where the most eye-catching ones are not hardy enough for Central European climate (zone 6). However, there are also perennials that are perfectly fine here and almost care-free. Such as wood spurge or also sometimes called cushion spurge.

It forms a compact, densely branched, mounded clump with narrowly elongated, mid green leaves, and typical spurge-like flowers (cyathia cupped by involucres in terminal cymes). The flowers lack both petals and sepals but are decorated with striking yellow-green bracts which may last for as long as 2 months. Stems and leaves exude milky sap of low toxicity, yet it may cause allergic reaction.

Wood spurge will grow in almost any well-drained garden soil provided it is protected the extremes of both wet and dry conditions. Cut off all stems from previous year in early spring. Find it a spot where its cheerful colour lightens up the entire bed. Hardy to about -34°C (USDA zone 4).

Last update: 12-02-2015