Blackbird Spurge
Euphorbia ampliphylla 'Blackbird'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Shrub
Height
24 inches
Width
18 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Low
Humidity
Low
Lifespan
Short-lived perennial
Native To
Hybrid of European species
Toxicity
Sap is a skin/eye irritant; toxic if ingested
The Story
Plant Bio
Euphorbia x martinii 'Blackbird' is an evergreen perennial prized for its striking, deep purple foliage that darkens in full sun and persists through winter. Features bracts of vibrant, yellow-green flowers in spring that contrast beautifully with the dark foliage. The milky sap is a skin irritant.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Select a well-draining soil with sandy or loamy texture to prevent root rot.
- Tuck seeds just below the soil surface and water gently to settle them in place.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and promote root development.
- Transplant seedlings after they develop strong roots, typically in 6 weeks.
- Position in full sun to ensure healthy growth and vibrant foliage.
- Apply a balanced fertilizer monthly during the growing season for optimal health.
Pro Tip
Ensure excellent drainage and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry out between watering 🌱
- Provide full sun for at least 6 hours daily
- Use well-draining soil to prevent excess moisture
- Apply organic compost in early spring
- Prune dead or damaged stems to maintain shape
Don't
- Don’t overwater; Euphorbia ampliphylla prefers dry conditions ❌
- Avoid planting in heavy clay soil that retains water
- Don’t expose to frost; protect in colder zones
- Refrain from over-fertilizing to prevent leggy growth
- Never handle without gloves; sap can be irritating
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Prune | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Blackbird Spurge questions
What zones can Blackbird Spurge grow in?
Blackbird Spurge is hardy in USDA Zones 6–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Blackbird Spurge deer resistant?
Yes — Blackbird Spurge is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Blackbird Spurge bloom?
Blackbird Spurge typically blooms in early spring through mid-summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Blackbird Spurge need full sun?
Blackbird Spurge does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Blackbird Spurge drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Blackbird 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'
Cypress Spurge
Euphorbia cyparissias
Ruby Spurge
Euphorbia cyparissias 'Fens Ruby'
Myrtle Spurge
Euphorbia myrsinites
Horned Spurge
Euphorbia cornigera
Ascot Rainbow Spurge
Euphorbia x hybrida 'Ascot Rainbow'
Keep exploring
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Hardy in your zone?
Grow Blackbird 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.
