Euphorbia amygdaloides 'PURPUREA'

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 hybrids where one of the parents bear the beauty of the tender species, and the other improves hardiness. And some are even native to our climate so no frost danger ahead.

Wood spurge is a semi-woody perennial native to warm but not parched areas of Europe, Caucasus, and Turkey. Possibly the most popular variety is called Purpurea. Its upright stems are rich burgundy red all season long, and evergreen leaves boast the same shade if fully insolated, otherwise they are dark green. In mid spring the plant produces large heads of numerous bright lime green flowers for a long period. As it blooms on previous year's wood, any pruning, if required, has to be done immediately after flowering in summer. All parts of the plant produce milky sap when cut, crushed, or bruised, that is toxic and can cause skin irritation.

Spurge will grow in full sun in almost any well-drained garden soil provided it is protected wet conditions, mainly in winter. Its autumn foliage colour improves with the levels of nitrogen in the soil so a small dose of slow-release fertilizer would do the trick in late summer, but is not necessary. It is hardy to about -23°C (USDA zone 6), and will need protection should the temperature drop lower.

Last update: 13-05-2019