Mediterranean spurge - Euphorbia characias (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Mediterranean spurge

Also known as: Albanian spurge, Large mediterranean spurge, Euphorbia

Mediterranean spurge (Euphorbia characias) is a flowering evergreen shrub that blooms from spring to early summer. Its nectar glands attract many pollinators, including bees and butterflies. This species grows well in dry or well-drained soil and has become a popular choice for desert gardens.

Scientific classification

Species

Mediterranean spurge (Euphorbia characias)

Nances, spurges, willows and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Shrub

Plant Type

Spring, Early summer, Winter

Bloom Time

Brown, Green, Copper

Fruit Color

Yellow, Green

Flower Color

Green, Yellow

Stem Color

Evergreen

Leaf type

15 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring

Growth Season

Moderate

Growth Rate

Images of Mediterranean spurge

Distribution of Mediterranean spurge

Distribution Map

Mediterranean spurge is native to the Mediterranean region and has become naturalized in other parts of the world. It is cultivated in various regions due to its ornamental appeal. Mediterranean spurge's introduced range spans across parts of southern South America, central Europe, and Oceania, reflecting its adaptability to diverse climates beyond its original habitat.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Grassy places and thickets in lowland and mountains.

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Garden Use

Bottlebrush-like flowerheads atop dense blue-green, grass-like leaves, along with a strong appeal to birds and butterflies, make mediterranean spurge a popular garden plant. Thanks to its tolerance to dry soil, mediterranean spurge is a common feature in rock, Mediterranean, and gravel gardens as a specimen piece or as a border plant.

Symbolism

Purity, protection and wisdom

Interesting Facts

Like every Euphorbia species, mediterranean spurge produces a milky, toxic sap that can cause skin irritation and painful inflammation if ingested. Despite its toxicity, spurge has been often used in traditional medicine and it's considered a garden-worthy plant.

Name Story

Mediterranean spurge||Albanian spurge||Large mediterranean spurge: Mediterranean spurge carries its common English name by the range of its distribution. This type of spurge grows in the Mediterranean basin and can grow up to 1.2 m tall, hence another common name - large Mediterranean spurge. It's sometimes called Albanian spurge because it grows naturally in the country of Albania as well.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Mediterranean spurge, including the following common varieties :

Mediterranean spurge 'Lambrook Gold'Mediterranean spurge 'John Tomlinson'Mediterranean spurge 'Black Pearl'Mediterranean spurge 'Glacier Blue'Mediterranean spurge 'Tasmanian Tiger'

Toxicity

Mediterranean spurge poses a moderate toxicity risk to humans, cats, and dogs. Poisoning occurs primarily through skin contact or ingestion. The plant's sap is hazardous, causing allergic reactions, abdominal pain, vomiting, and diarrhea. Immediate professional care is advised for both humans and animals exposed to the plant.

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Quickly Identify Mediterranean spurge

Upright, cylindrical stems up to 4 feet (1.2 meters) tall

Chartreuse-green flowers in small, rounded clusters

Bottlebrush-like inflorescence with greenish-yellow bracts

Dry, three-lobed capsule that dehisces to release seeds

Scale-like blue-green leaves with a coffee-like scent

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Care Guide for Mediterranean spurge

Every 2-3 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

15 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Succulent & Cactus Soil

Soil Type

Water: Adapted to arid Mediterranean conditions, mediterranean spurge is drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering, just once every 2-3 weeks. It thrives outdoors, particularly in hot, dry summers, where it can reflect its native water cycle while conserving water efficiently.

Fertilize: For optimal growth and blooming of mediterranean spurge, use balanced fertilizers sparingly in early spring and mid-summer, adhering to recommended dosages. Avoid autumn fertilization to prevent frost damage. Monitor mediterranean spurge's performance and adjust the fertilization schedule accordingly.

Pruning: Mediterranean spurge thrives with late spring pruning, cutting back spent flower stalks and removing damaged stems to encourage growth and maintain appearance. Thinning older stems improves air circulation and light penetration, preventing legginess and enhancing overall health for vibrant displays in future seasons.

Propagation: Mediterranean spurge is a hardy, evergreen perennial appreciated for its form and vibrant bracts. Propagate by taking a 3- to 6-inch cutting from healthy, non-flowering stems, treating with rooting hormone, and planting in well-draining soil. Ensure consistent moisture and warmth for successful rooting.

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Images of Mediterranean spurge

Distribution of Mediterranean spurge

Culture

Cultivars

Toxicity

Quickly Identify Mediterranean spurge

Care Guide for Mediterranean spurge

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