Euphorbia esula
leafy spurge
A native, deciduous, herbaceous perennial which produces new stems from buds on an underground rhizome in spring, up to approximately 90cm (3ft) high. The rhizome can become extensive when mature with deep vertical roots capable of penetrating several metres into the soil. Clusters of small yellow-green, floral bracts are produced spring and summer, followed by copious seed production. The plant has little or no ornamental value and has become a nuisance, non-native weed in several countries because of its ability to regenerate from its deep root system and copious seed production
Size
Ultimate height
1–1.5 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.5–1 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drained, Moist but well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Yellow Green | Green | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Yellow Green | Green | ||
| Autumn | Green Yellow | |||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Exposed or ShelteredDrought resistance
Yes Hardiness
H6Botanical details
- Family
- Euphorbiaceae
- Native to the UK
- Yes
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Clump forming
- 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
- Plant range
- Europe & Temp. Asia
How to grow
Cultivation
Grows in any well-drained soil, in full sun. to partial shade. See Euphorbia for further advice
Propagation
Propagate by seed or by division of the underground rhizome in early spring
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Banks and slopes
Pruning
Cut back old, flowered stems to the ground in late summer and autumn
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
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