With its woody stems and oval-shaped leaves, this perennial looks a lot like a tree. Like other members of the euphorbia family, it has milky sap and tiny flowers. Most of the appeal comes from the leaf color. dark burgundy on older leaves, a brighter red on new foliage. The foliage generally dies back in winter. -Jeff Moore, Regional Picks: Southwest, Fine Gardening issue #120
Noteworthy CharacteristicsThe milky sap may irritate skin.
CareProvide full sun and well-drained soil.
PropagationDivide in early spring, or take cuttings in spring or early summer.
ProblemsAphids, mealybugs, spider mites, nematodes.
- Genus : Euphorbia
- Zones : 10, 11, 9
- Plant Height : 10 to 15 feet
- Plant Width : 10 to 15 feet
- Tolerance : Drought Tolerant
- Moisture : Dry to Medium
- Light : Full Sun
- Maintenance : Low
- Plant Type : Perennials
- Foliage Color : Purple/Burgundy
- Characteristics : Showy Foliage
- Bloom Time : Spring
- Plant Seasonal Interest : Spring Interest
- Flower Color : White
Plant Characteristics are only available to Fine Gardening members
Sign up for a free trial and get instant access to our complete plant guide as well as our entire collection of articles and videos.