Euphorbia hypericifolia
A frost-tender, evergreen, herbaceous perennial forming a mound, with stems to 60cm (2ft) high and wide, with green, opposite, elliptical leaves. Attractive, much-branched terminal flower clusters appear from spring to autumn, each consisting of a central green and white female flower, surrounded by showy, male flowers with elliptical, white floral bracts. The plant is often grown as an annual outdoors in cool climates, but where container grown, can be overwintered in frost-free conditions.
Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green White | Green | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green White | Green | ||
| Autumn | Green White | Green | ||
| Winter | Green |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing or East–facing
Exposure
ShelteredDrought resistance
Yes Hardiness
H2Botanical details
- Family
- Euphorbiaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Clump forming, 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
- Plant range
- Trop. & Subtrop. America
How to grow
Cultivation
Grows best in moist, but well-drained soil, or dry soil in full sun. See Euphorbia for further advice
Propagation
Propagate by seed in spring or by basal cuttings in spring or early summer; dip cut surfaces in charcoal or lukewarm water to prevent bleeding
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- City and courtyard gardens
- Gravel garden
- Patio and container plants
- Conservatory and greenhouse
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
Remove plants in autumn where grown as an annual outdoors; trim in spring to maintain a compact habit when grown under glass.
Pests
Generally pest-free
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.