Euphorbia myrsinites

Euphorbia is one of the largest plant genera on earth and as such has the largest range of form and habit of any plant family. There are Euphorbias for hot dry places and for shady moist spots. All Euphorbia should be handled with care (wear gloves!) as they exude a milk-white sap that can cause irritation.

E. myrsinites is grown for its highly decorative, wintergreen foliage. It is great for planting on walls or along walkways where its snaky grey-green shoots can be best admired. Drought tolerant and early flowering, this plant is a must for any dry garden.

Distinctions: Winner of an Award of Garden Merit from the Royal Horticulture Society

WARNING: May cause minor vomiting or stomach upset if ingested. Sap or juice may cause dermatitis.

Zones: 5 to 9

Family: Euphorbiaceae

Type: Herbaceous Perennial

Height: 4 to 6 in.

Width: 12 to 24 in.

Exposure: Full Sun

Soil Conditions: Dry, Well-drained

Bloom Time: April to June

Native Range: southeastern Europe and Asia Minor

Image Credits:

• Image 1 (foliage) The Old Dairy
• Image 2 (blooms) Krzysztof Ziarnek, Kenraiz, CC BY-SA 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons
• Image 3 (form) The Old Dairy