2 named cultivars

perennial

Griffith's Spurge

The Story

Plant Bio

A clump-forming perennial with upright, reddish stems and lance-shaped, dark green leaves. Valued for its terminal clusters of showy, brick-red or orange bracts in late spring.

Notable for its bright and unique orange flower bracts that add color to the garden in early summer.

Uses & Benefits:

Euphorbia griffithii provides striking red foliage and flowers, adding vibrant color year-round.

Drought-tolerant and low-maintenance, ideal for xeriscaping and water-wise gardens.

Supports pollinators like bees and butterflies with its bright blooms.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

30 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Medium

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Himalayas

Toxicity

All parts are highly toxic if ingested; milky sap can cause severe skin and eye irritation.

Planting

How to Grow

Select well-draining soil with sandy or loamy texture for planting.
Tuck seeds into the soil surface and lightly cover with soil, water gently.
Place in a location with full sun to partial shade for optimal growth.
Water regularly but do not overwater, allowing soil to dry between watering.
Apply a balanced fertilizer during the active growing season every 6 weeks.
Mulch around the base to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.

Pro Tip

Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot and promote healthy growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water when the top inch of soil feels dry 🌱
Prune dead or damaged stems to maintain shape
Apply a cactus or succulent fertilizer monthly during growth season
Monitor regularly for pests and treat promptly

Don't

Avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot ❌
Do not place in deep shade; prefers full sun
Avoid heavy, clay soils without amendment
Do not ignore pest signs; early detection is key

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Divide
Prune
Winter Prep

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Sculptural xeriscape featureDrought-tolerant borderAccent plant in rock gardens

Companion Plants

Sedum AgaveLavender Echinocactus

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Griffith's Spurge questions

What zones can Griffith's Spurge grow in?

Griffith's Spurge is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Griffith's Spurge deer resistant?

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

When does Griffith's Spurge bloom?

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

Does Griffith's Spurge need full sun?

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

Is Griffith's Spurge drought tolerant?

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