Euphorbia × pasteurii 'John Phillips'

RHS Plant Profile
spurge 'John Phillips'
Award of Garden MeritPlants for pollinators
Shrubs

An erect, robust, evergreen shrub to around 1m tall and 1.75m across. The foliage is yellow-green with a pale midrib, and often produces vivid red tones in autumn and winter. Honey-scented, yellow-green flowers are produced from late spring to late summer, turning pale brown as they age, followed by yellow-green, berry-like fruit

Position

Full sun

Soil Types

Chalk, Loam, Sand

Max Height

1-1.5 metres

Max Spread

1.5-2.5 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
2–5 years
Max Spread
1.5-2.5 metres
Max Height
1-1.5 metres

Growing Conditions

Chalk Loam Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Acid or Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H4
Drought Resistance
Yes

Colour & Scent

Fragrance Flower
Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Euphorbiaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Bushy
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
Accepted

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grow in well-drained, light soil in full sun. See Euphorbia for further advice

Propagation

Propagate by softwood cuttings in spring or early summer; dip cut surfaces in charcoal or lukewarm water to prevent bleeding

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Architectural
  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Gravel garden
  • Wildlife gardens
  • Banks and slopes
  • Flower borders and beds

Pruning

Cut back flowered shoots in late autumn

Pests

May be susceptible to aphids

Diseases

May be susceptible to rust and to root and stem rots in wet conditions