perennial RHS Award

Myrtle Spurge

Euphorbia myrsinites

$21.00

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:

Ornamental UsesEuphorbia myrsinites offers striking silvery-blue foliage, ideal for xeriscaping and low-maintenance borders, enhancing drought-tolerant landscapes.
Practical UsesIts drought resilience reduces water needs, making it an eco-friendly choice for water-conscious gardens.
Ecological BenefitsProvides habitat for native pollinators and supports biodiversity in arid environments.

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

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In flower about 5 months of the year

Marketplace

Where to Buy

<1 Gal Pot1+ Gal Pot
In Stock$21.00
In Stock$28.95

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring for best germination.
  2. Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and promote root growth.
  3. Ensure plants receive full sun for optimal growth.
  4. Water sparingly once established, allowing soil to dry out between watering.
  5. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring to support healthy growth.
  6. 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

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Plant
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Arid-themed succulent gardenSilvery-gray border plantDrought-tolerant rock garden

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.

Keep exploring

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.