Euphorbia characias subsp. wulfenii Margery Fish Group
An evergreen, perennial, sub-shrub, growing to 1.5m (5ft) high and wide, with narrow lance-shaped, grey-green leaves, on stems that produce terminal, cylindrical clusters of bright yellow-green, floral bracts in spring and early summer
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Size
Ultimate height
1–1.5 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
1–1.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Yellow Green | Grey Silver Green | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Yellow Green | Grey Silver Green | ||
| Autumn | Grey Silver Green | |||
| Winter | Grey Silver Green |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing or East–facing
Exposure
ShelteredDrought resistance
Yes Hardiness
H4Botanical details
- Family
- Euphorbiaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- 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
Unresolved
How to grow
Cultivation
Grows best in mild areas in light, well-drained soil in full sun. See Euphorbia for further advice
Propagation
Propagate by division in early spring or take basal 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
- Mediterranean climate plants
- Wildlife gardens
- Cut flowers
Pruning
Cut back old, flowered stems to the ground in late summer and autumn
Pests
May be susceptible to aphids
Diseases
Generally disease-free
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