Euphorbia ceratocarpa

RHS Plant Profile
horned spurge
Award of Garden MeritPlants for pollinators
Herbaceous Perennial Shrubs

A tall, upright, evergreen, sub-shrub to about 170cm in height and spread with slightly bluish foliage. The main flowering period is mid-summer to mid-autumn, but it can produce its yellow-green flowers more or less year round in mild conditions

Position

Full sun

Soil Types

Chalk, Loam, Sand

Max Height

1.5-2.5 metres

Max Spread

1.5-2.5 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
2–5 years
Max Spread
1.5-2.5 metres
Max Height
1.5-2.5 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
Sheltered
Hardiness
H4
Drought Resistance
Yes

Colour & Scent

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
Correct
Plant Range
Sicily, S. Italy

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

  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Gravel garden
  • Wildlife gardens
  • Flower borders and beds

Pruning

Cut back flowered stems as they fade

Pests

May be susceptible to aphids

Diseases

May be susceptible to root and stem rots in wet conditions