Euphorbia peplus

RHS Plant Profile
petty spurge
petty spurge RHS

Other common names

llaeth y cythrael

Plants for pollinators
Annual Biennial

A small annual typically 5-20cm tall often considered a weed. Erect, branching stems bear oval leaves up to 3cm long and small, pale green flowers with triangular bracts below

Position

Full sun, Partial shade

Soil Types

Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand

Max Height

0.1-0.5 metres

Max Spread

0-0.1 metre

Size

Time to Maturity
1 year
Max Spread
0-0.1 metre
Max Height
0.1-0.5 metres

Growing Conditions

Chalk Clay Loam Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained or Well–drained
pH
Acid or Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full sun Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or North–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H5
Drought Resistance
Yes

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Euphorbiaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
Yes
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Columnar upright
Potentially harmful
Humans/Pets: IRRITANT to skin/eyeharmful if eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. For further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants
Genus
Euphorbia can be annuals, perennials, shrubs or succulents, with milky sap and small flowers held within cupped, often colourful bracts
Name Status
Correct
Plant Range
Europe & Temp. Asia

How to Grow

Cultivation

Prefers a well-drained soil in full sun but will tolerate moist soils and shady conditions. Readily self-seeds so remove plants before flowers set seed to limit spread. See Euphorbia for further advice

Propagation

Propagate by seed

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Wildlife gardens
  • Flower borders and beds

Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free