Species spurge Guide
yellow-lime flowers with lime stamens, green leaves and yellow-lime stems

spurge

Euphorbia characias subsp. wulfenii

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Minimum

Propagation:

Cutting,Division,Seed Propagation,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

6 - 8

Flowers:

Greenish-yellow Flowers

Sun:

Full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Moderate

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Thorny:

Yes

watering

Spurge should be watered once or twice a week, depending on the soil moisture. When watering, add enough water so that it moistens the entire root system – about 1 inch of water. The soil should be kept slightly moist. Avoid overwatering, as this can cause damage to the plant. During the summer months, in especially hot and dry climates, you may need to water more often. Be sure to adjust your watering schedule according to the changes in the environment.

sunlight

Spurge (Euphorbia characias subsp. wulfenii) prefer a location in full sun or part shade and benefit from at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day. During the summer months, when temperatures are high, some light afternoon shade is beneficial to prevent leaf scorch from the intense afternoon sun. Spurge also does best with soil that drains well and in an area with good air circulation.

pruning

For best results, prune spurge (Euphorbia characias subsp. wulfenii) in late winter or early spring just before any new growth begins. Cut back the stems of mature plants to a height of 12 to 18 inches (30 to 46 cm). Cutting further than this can cause the plant to lose its well-rounded shape. Remove some of the oldest, woodiest stems at the base to make room for fresh growth. Cut away dead and damaged stems. In mid-spring, prune any new side shoots to encourage bushier growth. Yearly pruning in late winter or early spring helps spurge (Euphorbia characias subsp. wulfenii) stay healthy and attractive.