Euphorbia leuconeura
A tropical, succulent shrub capable of reaching 1.8m (6ft) and 1m (39in) across. Young plants' stems are cylindrical but mature to four or five sided stems the edges of which are covered in dense brown bristles. In bright sunlight the leaf stalks and leaf margins can take on a reddish tinge. The young foliage is dark green and prominently white veined, forming a herringbone pattern while older foliage becomes all green. Clusters of small, insignificant white flowers without petals, from red buds, are produced in the leaf axils at the tips of the stems on mature plants in spring. Suitable for growing as a feature plant indoors, or a warm greenhouse or conservatory
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Size
Ultimate height
1.5–2.5 metresTime to ultimate height
5–10 yearsUltimate spread
0.5–1 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
Spring | Green Brown | White Red | Green White | |
---|---|---|---|---|
Summer | Green Brown Red White | |||
Autumn | Green Brown | Green | ||
Winter | Green Brown | Green |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing or East–facing
Exposure
ShelteredDrought resistance
Yes Hardiness
H1ABotanical details
- Family
- Euphorbiaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Bushy
- Potentially harmful
- Humans/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
- Genus
Euphorbia can be annuals, perennials, shrubs or succulents, with milky sap and small flowers held within cupped, often colourful bracts
- Name status
Correct
How to grow
Cultivation
Grows best in well-drained soil, in full sun to partial shade and temperatures no lower than 15˚C (60˚F). See Euphorbia for further advice
Propagation
Propagate by seed or by cuttings in spring or early summer; dip cut surfaces in charcoal or lukewarm water to prevent bleeding
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Houseplants
- Conservatory and greenhouse
Pruning
Prune when required to reduce size in early spring
Pests
May be susceptible to mealybugs
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.