The Story
Plant Bio
Euphorbia characias 'Tasmanian Tiger' is a unique perennial known for its striking variegated foliage and bright green flowers.
The 'Tasmanian Tiger' cultivar features distinctive creamy-white margins on the leaves, adding visual interest.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
36 inches
Width
36 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
7, 8, 9, 10
Water
Low
Humidity
Low
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Mediterranean
Toxicity
All parts are highly toxic if ingested; sap is a skin and eye irritant.
Bloom period
Mid-spring – Late summer
In flower about 5 months of the year
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring for best germination.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and promote root growth.
- Plant in full sun to ensure vibrant variegation and healthy growth.
- Water deeply but infrequently to prevent root rot, especially in summer.
- Apply slow-release fertilizer in early spring for sustained nutrients.
- Mulch around the base to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
Pro Tip
Use well-draining sandy soil and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water sparingly during dormancy 🌱
- Prune after flowering to maintain shape
- Fertilize in spring with a balanced slow-release fertilizer
- Provide full sun for optimal growth
Don't
- Avoid overwatering in winter ❌
- Do not use heavy clay soil that retains water
- Refrain from pruning in late fall
- Avoid excessive nitrogen fertilization
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Prune | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Tasmanian Tiger Spurge questions
What zones can Tasmanian Tiger Spurge grow in?
Tasmanian Tiger 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 Tasmanian Tiger Spurge deer resistant?
Yes — Tasmanian Tiger Spurge is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Tasmanian Tiger Spurge bloom?
Tasmanian Tiger Spurge typically blooms in mid-spring through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Tasmanian Tiger Spurge need full sun?
Tasmanian Tiger Spurge does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Tasmanian Tiger Spurge drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Tasmanian Tiger Spurge handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Euphorbia to compare
Flowering Spurge
Euphorbia corollata 'Carolina Snow'
Ascot Rainbow Spurge
Euphorbia x hybrida 'Ascot Rainbow'
Cypress Spurge
Euphorbia cyparissias
Myrtle Spurge
Euphorbia myrsinites
Ruby Spurge
Euphorbia cyparissias 'Fens Ruby'
Mediterranean Spurge
Euphorbia polychroma
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Tasmanian Tiger Spurge with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.