perennial RHS Award

Marsh Spurge

The Story

Plant Bio

Euphorbia palustris, also known as marsh spurge, is a perennial herbaceous plant that thrives in wetland environments.

This species is known for its striking yellow-green flower bracts and ability to tolerate wet conditions, making it valuable for moist gardens.

Uses & Benefits:

Euphorbia palustris provides attractive arching foliage and unique form, enhancing water features and native plant gardens.

Its drought tolerance and adaptability to wet soils make it ideal for diverse landscape conditions.

Supports local biodiversity by providing habitat and nectar for pollinators.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

36 inches

Width

42 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moist to wet soils

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Europe, Western Asia

Toxicity

Sap is a skin/eye irritant; toxic if ingested

Bloom period

Late spring – Early summer

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into well-drained soil in early spring for best germination.
Mist cuttings lightly and keep soil moist for root development.
Transplant seedlings when they are sturdy, typically after 4-6 weeks.
Water regularly but avoid overwatering; keep soil moist during growing season.
Fertilize monthly with a balanced, diluted fertilizer during active growth.
Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Pro Tip

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

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water sparingly, especially during dormancy 🌱
Prune dead or damaged stems in late winter
Apply balanced fertilizer during active growth
Mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds

Don't

Avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot ❌
Don’t disturb roots unnecessarily
Refrain from fertilizing in late fall
Don’t prune excessively during flowering

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Sandy-drained rock gardenMoist woodland borderNative plant garden

Companion Plants

Carex spp.Juncus spp.Saxifrage spp. Irises Lobelia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Marsh Spurge questions

What zones can Marsh Spurge grow in?

Marsh Spurge is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Marsh Spurge deer resistant?

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

When does Marsh Spurge bloom?

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

Does Marsh Spurge need full sun?

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