This notable species produces erect stems of bronzy burgundy leaves and purple-green bracts in early summer. It looks exceptional when placed near contrasting plants. The foliage may be cut back after flowering to produce fresh growth.
Noteworthy CharacteristicsThis herbaceous perennial is well suited to the mixed border or to naturalizing. Milky sap may cause irritation to skin and severe discomfort if ingested.
CareThis plant prefers moist, humus-rich soil in dappled shade, but will tolerate full sun and drier soils. Self sows regularly.
PropagationStart seed when ripe or in spring; divide in early spring.
ProblemsNematodes, spider mites, aphids, mealybugs, fungal and bacterial diseases.
Fine Gardening Recommended Products
The Nature of Oaks: The Rich Ecology of Our Most Essential Native Trees
Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.
Pruning Simplified: A Step-by-Step Guide to 50 Popular Trees and Shrubs
Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.
Planting in a Post-Wild World: Designing Plant Communities for Resilient Landscapes
Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.
- Genus : Euphorbia
- Zones : 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
- Plant Height : 6 to 12 inches
- Plant Width : 6 to 12 inches
- Tolerance : Deer Tolerant
- Moisture : Dry to Medium
- Bloom Time : Early Summer, Summer
- Light : Full Sun to Partial Shade
- Uses : Ground Covers
- Maintenance : Low
- Plant Type : Perennials
- Foliage Color : Purple/Burgundy
- Characteristics : Self Seeds, Showy Foliage, Showy Seed Heads
- Growth Rate : Slow
- Plant Seasonal Interest : Spring Interest
- Flower Color : Yellow
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.
