Mercurialis elliptica is a herbaceous perennial native to the Mediterranean region, often found in coastal habitats and rocky areas. It is a low-growing plant with small
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Partial Shade
50% intensity
Prefers dappled sunlight or bright, indirect light. Avoid direct, intense sun.
Moderate
50% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist during growth, reduce in dormancy.
Loam, Sandy, Clay
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Thrives in average room temperatures between 15-24°C. Protect from frost.
Low
25% intensity
Feed lightly during the growing season with diluted balanced fertilizer.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water Mercurialis elliptica consistently during its active growing season, ensuring the soil remains moist but not waterlogged. Reduce watering significantly during its dormancy period.
Check the soil moisture regularly, allowing the top layer to dry slightly between waterings to prevent root rot.
Pruning Mercurialis elliptica is primarily for shaping and to remove any dead or damaged stems. Minimal pruning is generally required.
If the plant becomes leggy, you can lightly trim it back in late spring or early summer to encourage bushier growth. Remove spent flower stalks to maintain tidiness.
Mercurialis elliptica can be propagated by division of clumps in early spring before new growth emerges. Alternatively, seeds can be sown in autumn or early spring.
Successful germination may require a period of cold stratification for seeds sown outdoors.
Repot Mercurialis elliptica when it becomes root-bound, typically every 2-3 years. Use a well-draining potting mix. The best time to repot is in early spring before the start of the growing season.
Choose a pot only slightly larger than the current one to avoid overwatering issues.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Mercurialis Elliptica (Mercurialis elliptica)
Where Mercurialis Elliptica (Mercurialis elliptica) is found
Density
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Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Euphorbiaceae |
| Genus | Mercurialis |
| Species | Mercurialis elliptica |
Similar in genus Mercurialis
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
