Species Mexican shrubby spurge
burgundy-pink leaves with pink veins and midribs on red petioles and stems

Mexican shrubby spurge

Euphorbia cotinifolia

The Mexican Shrubby Spurge (Euphorbia cotinifolia) is an amazing plant species due to its versatility and prevalence in many different environments. It is a small evergreen with bright green foliage year round and feathery, yellowish flowers that appear in spring and summer. It is a flowering succulent and drought tolerant, making it a great choice for water conservation landscaping. Plus, this resilient shrub is incredibly versatile, thriving in a wide range of soil types and sun exposures. On top of that, it’s easy to care for and cold hardy, making it great even for beginners! This plant species is definitely a great way to spruce up any outdoor or indoor space!

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Seed Propagation,Cutting,Layering Propagation,Division

Hardiness Zone:

10 - 11

Flowers:

White Flowers In Summer

Sun:

Full sun

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Moderate

Poisonous To Pets:

Yes

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Thorny:

Yes

Invasive:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Mexican shrubby spurge (Euphorbia cotinifolia) should be watered twice a week with a generous amount of water. During summer, a little more water can be provided, but be careful not to saturate the soil. During the winter season, cut back on watering and instead check the soil every few weeks to ensure it is still moist. This plant prefers its soil to stay moist, but not soggy.

sunlight

Mexican shrubby spurge (Euphorbia cotinifolia) does best with at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day. They prefer full sun, but can tolerate light shade. Avoid shady spots that receive less than 6 hours of daily sunlight. When possible, provide Mexican shrubby spurge with direct sun during the cooler morning or evening hours, and then some indirect sun during the hottest part of the day. Additionally, be aware that direct sunlight hitting foliage is a major cause of sun leaf scorching and other leaf maladies.

pruning

Mexican shrubby spurge (Euphorbia cotinifolia) should be pruned once a year in the spring or early summer. Pruning should happen after all danger of frost has passed and when the plant has sent out new growth. Pruning should be done back to 8-10 inches in height, leaving a compact and bushy plant. All dead, diseased, and crossing branches should be removed. Heavier pruning may be done on an as needed basis, taking care to not remove more than 1/3 of the plants total growth in 1 year.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Euphorbia cotinifolia typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in April or May.

Hardiness Map