Euphorbia helioscopia
sun spurge
A native, annual, deciduous weed producing upright stems, approximately 30-45cm 12-16in) high, branching towards the top, wth green, oval leaves and terminal clusters of small, insignificant yellow-green flowers from mid-spring to summer. The plant commonly occurs on cultivated fields, garden borders, allotments and waste ground, where seed can remain viable for a number of years, before being brought to the surface by digging or soil disturbance, where they will then germinate.
Other common names
churn stafflittle good
see morelittle goody
mad woman's milk
mare's milk
mouse milk
sun spurge
wart grass
wartwort
Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metresTime to ultimate height
1 yearUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Yellow Green | Green | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Yellow Green | Green | ||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Exposed or ShelteredDrought resistance
Yes Hardiness
H7Botanical details
- Family
- Euphorbiaceae
- Native to the UK
- Yes
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Bushy
- Potentially harmful
- IRRITANT to skin/eye, harmful if eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling
- Genus
Euphorbia can be annuals, perennials, shrubs or succulents, with milky sap and small flowers held within cupped, often colourful bracts
- Name status
Correct
How to grow
Cultivation
Grows best in moist, but well-drained soil, or dry soil in full sun. See Euphorbia for further advice
Propagation
Propagate by seed
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- City and courtyard gardens
- Cottage and informal garden
- Mediterranean climate plants
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
Remove plants after flowering in autumn
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
May be susceptible to rust diseases
Get involved
The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.