Also known as Cushion Euphorbia · Golden Cushion Spurge · Yellow Cushion Euphorbia
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Cushion Spurge (Euphorbia epithymoides) forms a dense mound of bright green foliage topped with vibrant yellow bracts in spring.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full sun to partial shade
75% intensity
Prefers at least 6 hours of direct sunlight
Allow soil to dry between waterings
50% intensity
Reduce in fall and winter
Well-drained
50% intensity
Hardy
50% intensity
Prefers moderate temperatures, tolerates heat and some cold
Infrequent
25% intensity
Light feeding in spring
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 4/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 4/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
The milky sap of Euphorbia species can cause skin irritation and blistering. Ingestion can cause gastrointestinal upset.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water cushion spurge moderately during its active growing season, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Reduce watering significantly in fall and winter to prevent root rot, especially in cooler climates. Ensure good drainage to avoid waterlogged conditions.
Prune cushion spurge immediately after flowering to maintain a tidy shape and prevent self-seeding. Remove spent flower stalks by cutting them back to the base of the plant.
Deadhead to encourage a fuller appearance and potentially a second, though less prolific, bloom.
Propagate cushion spurge by division in early spring or fall. Carefully dig up the plant and divide the root ball into sections, ensuring each section has roots and shoots.
Replant divisions immediately into well-draining soil. It can also be propagated from seed sown in autumn.
Repotting is generally not necessary for established cushion spurge plants as they prefer to be slightly root-bound. If division is performed, it effectively acts as a form of rejuvenation.
Ensure the new planting location or container offers excellent drainage.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Cushion Spurge (Euphorbia epithymoides)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Euphorbiaceae |
| Genus | Euphorbia |
| Species | Euphorbia epithymoides |
Similar in genus Euphorbia
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
