Mediterranean spurge (Euphorbia characias)

Mediterranean Spurge (Euphorbia characias) is a drought-tolerant perennial subshrub. Known for its striking architectural form, grey-green foliage, and vibrant yellow-gre

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Sunlight

Full sun to partial shade for best flowering.

Watering

Drought-tolerant once established, occasional deep watering during dry spells.

Soil

Well-drained, poor to moderately fertile soil.

Temperature

Hardy, prefers mild winters and hot, dry summers.

Habitat

Outdoor

Fertilizer

Minimal to no fertilizer needed, especially in poor soils.

Care Requirements

Light

Full sun to partial shade for best flowering.

Water

Drought-tolerant once established, occasional deep watering during dry spells.

Soil

Well-drained, poor to moderately fertile soil.

Temperature

Hardy, prefers mild winters and hot, dry summers.

Habitat

Outdoor

Fertilizer

Minimal to no fertilizer needed, especially in poor soils.

Plant Overview

Plant Type

Herb, Shrub

Plant Category

Ornamental

Plant Place Type

Ground, Garden, Pot

Plant Environment

Outdoor

Lifespan

Perennials

Plant Height

0.8-1.5 m

Spread

0.6-1.2 m

Growth Rate

Medium

Dormancy

Evergreen in mild climates, semi-evergreen in colder regions

Leaf Color

Grey-green, Blue-green

Leaf Type

Linear to oblanceolate

Flower Size

1-2 cm (bracts)

Optimal Sunlight Lux

60000

Weed Status

Yes

Image Gallery

Flowering & Fruiting Cycles

Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.

Northern hemisphere

Flowering & fruiting calendar

Peak bloom · AprPeak fruit · Jun

FloweringFruiting

Southern hemisphere

Flowering & fruiting calendar

Peak bloom · OctPeak fruit · Sep

FloweringFruiting

Synonyms

Esula characias (L.) Haw.

Tithymalus characias (L.) Hill

Taxonomy

kingdomPlantae
divisionTracheophyta
classMagnoliopsida
orderMalpighiales
familyEuphorbiaceae
genusEuphorbia
speciesEuphorbia characias

Toxicity

Toxic for humans

Yes

Rating: 4/5

Toxic for pets

Yes

Rating: 4/5

Edible

All parts contain a milky white latex sap that can cause skin and eye irritation upon contact, and gastrointestinal upset if ingested.

Additional Care Tips

Water newly planted Mediterranean Spurge regularly until established, typically for the first year. Once established, it is highly drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering, especially in winter. During prolonged dry spells in summer, occasional deep watering may be beneficial, but avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot. Ensure excellent drainage.

Prune Mediterranean Spurge after flowering, typically in late spring or early summer, to maintain its shape and prevent excessive self-seeding. Cut back spent flower stalks to the base of the plant or to a strong side shoot. Wear gloves and eye protection when pruning due to the irritating sap. Remove any dead or damaged stems as needed.

Mediterranean Spurge can be propagated by seed or by basal cuttings. Seeds can be sown in autumn or spring, often self-seeding readily in the garden. For cuttings, take non-flowering shoots in late spring or early summer, dip the cut end in water to stop sap flow, then in rooting hormone, and plant in a well-draining mix.

Repotting is generally not a frequent requirement for Mediterranean Spurge, as it prefers to be somewhat root-bound and is often grown in the ground. If grown in a container, repot every 2-3 years into a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining potting mix. This is best done in early spring before new growth begins.

FAQs

How often should I water Mediterranean Spurge?

Once established, Mediterranean Spurge is highly drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering. Water deeply only during prolonged dry spells, ensuring the soil dries out between waterings to prevent root rot.

Is Mediterranean Spurge poisonous?

Yes, all parts of Mediterranean Spurge contain a milky white latex sap that is irritating. Contact with skin or eyes can cause irritation, and ingestion can lead to gastrointestinal upset in both humans and pets.

When does Mediterranean Spurge bloom?

Mediterranean Spurge typically blooms from late winter through late spring, generally from February to May or June, displaying its vibrant yellow-green bracts.

How do I prune Mediterranean Spurge?

Prune after flowering, usually in late spring or early summer, by cutting back spent flower stalks to the base or to a strong side shoot. Always wear gloves and eye protection due to the irritating sap.

Can Mediterranean Spurge be grown in pots?

Yes, Mediterranean Spurge can be successfully grown in large containers, provided they have excellent drainage. Use a well-draining potting mix and ensure the pot is large enough to accommodate its mature size.

Care Requirements

Light

Full sun to partial shade for best flowering.

Water

Drought-tolerant once established, occasional deep watering during dry spells.

Soil

Well-drained, poor to moderately fertile soil.

Temperature

Hardy, prefers mild winters and hot, dry summers.

Habitat

Outdoor

Fertilizer

Minimal to no fertilizer needed, especially in poor soils.

Plant Overview

Plant Type

Herb, Shrub

Plant Category

Ornamental

Plant Place Type

Ground, Garden, Pot

Plant Environment

Outdoor

Lifespan

Perennials

Plant Height

0.8-1.5 m

Spread

0.6-1.2 m

Growth Rate

Medium

Dormancy

Evergreen in mild climates, semi-evergreen in colder regions

Leaf Color

Grey-green, Blue-green

Leaf Type

Linear to oblanceolate

Flower Size

1-2 cm (bracts)

Optimal Sunlight Lux

60000

Weed Status

Yes

Additional Care Tips

FAQs