The Story
Plant Bio
Euphorbia myrsinites, commonly known as myrtle spurge, is a perennial ground cover that is drought-resistant and features fleshy, blue-green leaves.
This species displays unique yellow flower bracts that appear in clusters during blooming, making it distinctive among other Euphorbias.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
6 inches
Width
18 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
5, 6, 7, 8
Water
Low
Humidity
Low
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Mediterranean region
Toxicity
Toxic if ingested, skin irritant
Bloom period
Spring – Late summer
In flower about 5 months of the year
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
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.
- Ensure plants receive full sun for optimal growth.
- Water sparingly once established, allowing soil to dry out between watering.
- Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring to support healthy growth.
- Prune dead or damaged stems in late winter to maintain shape.
Pro Tip
Use well-draining sandy soil and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water sparingly during dormancy 🌱
- Provide full sun for vigorous growth
- Prune dead stems in late winter
- Use well-draining soil to prevent rot
Don't
- Overwater during winter ❌
- Plant in heavy clay soil ❌
- Expose to full shade ❌
- Use chemical fertilizers excessively ❌
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
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
Myrtle Spurge questions
What zones can Myrtle Spurge grow in?
Myrtle Spurge is hardy in USDA Zones 5–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Myrtle Spurge deer resistant?
Yes — Myrtle Spurge is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Myrtle Spurge bloom?
Myrtle Spurge typically blooms in spring through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Myrtle Spurge need full sun?
Myrtle Spurge does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Myrtle Spurge drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Myrtle 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

Ruby Spurge
Euphorbia cyparissias 'Fens Ruby'

Mediterranean Spurge
Euphorbia polychroma

Horned Spurge
Euphorbia cornigera
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Myrtle 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.
