Cushion Spurge
euphorbia epithymoides
Also known as: ["Euphorbia polychroma","Euphorbia epithymoides"]
Overview
A herbaceous perennial with bright yellow bracts in spring and a compact, cushion-like growth habit.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","deer resistant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Euphorbiaceae |
| Genus: | Euphorbia |
| Botanical Name: | Euphorbia epithymoides |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden border or rock garden
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–30 to 40°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–9"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining; excellent drainage is crucial to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter; avoid heavy clay soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight per day); tolerates partial shade but may become leggy.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Full sun is best; avoid deep shade; rotate plants for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure proper drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-drained, moderately fertile soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure excellent drainage; avoid waterlogged soil; amend with sand or perlite if needed.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 3–8; tolerates temperatures from -30°F to 90°F; prefers cool winters and warm summers.
Protect from frost; avoid extreme heat; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize once in spring; use a balanced formula; avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Let it callus for a few days.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep warm and humid.
Best Time: Late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; keep soil lightly moist.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss; can also root in water for a short period.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots may appear in 2–4 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, perlite, peat moss, pots.
Quick Tips
Let cuttings callus before planting; use rooting hormone for faster roots; keep warm and humid.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut back stems to just above a leaf node or bud; remove dead or crossing branches.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or damaged growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves, disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape the plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; repot in fresh, well-draining soil; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; Euphorbia epithymoides is not typically repotted often as it is often grown in the ground.
Checklist
Choose new pot; prepare fresh soil; trim roots; repot gently; water lightly.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water early in the day to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in extreme heat; leaf drop or dieback in prolonged cold.
Cold Stress
Leaves may turn yellow or drop; growth slows or halts; frost can damage tender tissues.
Solution: Mulch heavily in winter; protect from frost with row covers; ensure good air circulation to prevent cold-induced rot.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow; flowers may fade quickly.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade in extreme heat; water deeply but infrequently; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Choose balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; avoid over-fertilizing.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid over-fertilizing, as Euphorbia is not heavy feeder.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are susceptible to toxicity from Euphorbia epithymoides, particularly through ingestion or sap contact. The plant's diterpene esters and latex can cause gastrointestinal distress and skin irritation, with potential for more severe reactions in sensitive individuals.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested or if sap comes into contact with skin or eyes
Dogs
ToxicIn dogs, ingestion or contact with the sap of Euphorbia epithymoides can lead to gastrointestinal upset and skin irritation due to the presence of diterpene esters and latex. Systemic effects are rare but possible with large ingestions.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested or if sap comes into contact with skin or eyes
Humans
ToxicEuphorbia epithymoides contains diterpene esters and latex, which are toxic upon ingestion or contact. These compounds can cause irritation, inflammation, and potential systemic effects depending on the amount and duration of exposure.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested or if sap comes into contact with skin or eyes
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Euphorbia epithymoides toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How should I care for Euphorbia epithymoides?
A: Plant in full sun to partial shade with well-drained soil and water moderately.
Q: Does Euphorbia epithymoides attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds with its bright yellow bracts.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Euphorbiaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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