3 named cultivars

perennial

Mediterranean Spurge

Euphorbia characias

Same species

3 named cultivars

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

48 inches

Width

48 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

7, 8, 9

Water

Low

Humidity

Low

Lifespan

Evergreen perennial

Native To

Mediterranean region

Toxicity

Toxic if ingested, skin irritant

The Story

Plant Bio

An evergreen sub-shrub known for its architectural, upright stems and large, cylindrical flowerheads with prominent chartreuse bracts. The striking, dome-shaped clumps of blue-green, linear leaves provide year-round structure and texture. All parts contain a toxic milky sap that is a skin and eye irritant.

Uses & Benefits:

Its striking silvery foliage and architectural form make it a standout feature in drought-resistant gardens.

Low water requirements and minimal maintenance make it ideal for sustainable landscapes.

Provides habitat and nectar for pollinators like bees and butterflies.

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring.
Water sparingly until seedlings establish, then reduce watering.
Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity during propagation.
Transplant young plants in late spring after the danger of frost passes.
Mulch around the base to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
Prune dead or damaged stems in late winter for shape and health.

Pro Tip

Use well-draining soil and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide full sun for optimal growth ☀️
Water deeply but infrequently to mimic natural drought conditions
Prune to maintain shape and remove dead stems
Apply a low-phosphorus fertilizer in spring
Mulch to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature

Don't

Avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot ❌
Don’t plant in heavy clay soil without amendment
Refrain from excessive fertilizing, which can weaken stems
Don’t prune in late fall or winter

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Plant
Prune
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Drought-tolerant border with silvery foliageArchitectural accent in xeriscape gardensLow-maintenance rock garden feature

Companion Plants

Lavender Sedum Agave Yucca Artemisia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Mediterranean Spurge questions

What zones can Mediterranean Spurge grow in?

Mediterranean Spurge is hardy in USDA Zones 7–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Mediterranean Spurge deer resistant?

Yes — Mediterranean Spurge is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Mediterranean Spurge bloom?

Mediterranean Spurge typically blooms in late winter, early spring, mid spring through late spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Mediterranean Spurge need full sun?

Mediterranean Spurge does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Mediterranean Spurge drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Mediterranean Spurge handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.