Euphorbia characias subsp. wulfenii 'Shorty'
A compact, evergreen perennial sub-shrub growing to approximately 90cm (3ft) high and 40cm (16in) across bearing stems with narrow, lance-shaped, grey-green leaves and terminal, cylindrical clusters of bright, yellow-green floral bracts in early to late spring
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Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.5–1 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
Spring | Yellow Green | Grey Silver Green | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
Summer | Grey Silver Green | |||
Autumn | Grey Silver Green | |||
Winter | Grey Silver Green |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing or East–facing
Exposure
ShelteredDrought resistance
Yes Hardiness
H4Botanical 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
Accepted
How to grow
Cultivation
Grows best in mild areas in light, well-drained soil in full sun. See Euphorbia for further advice
Propagation
Propagate by division in early spring or take 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
- Cottage and informal garden
- Gravel garden
- Mediterranean climate plants
- Patio and container plants
- Wildlife gardens
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
Cut back old, flowered stems to the ground in late summer and autumn
Pests
May be susceptible to aphids
Diseases
Generally disease-free
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