Snow-on-the-mountain - Euphorbia marginata (Care, Characteristics, Symbolism, Images, Toxic)

Snow-on-the-mountain

Also known as: Mountain snow, Ghost weed, Whitemargined spurge, Smoke-on-the-prairie

Snow-on-the-mountain (Euphorbia marginata) is a plant species that often grows where other plants cannot survive. Snow-on-the-mountain thrives in dark, shady places and provides a ground cover. Its ground cover is distinctive due to its leaves, which can be white, light yellow, or a variegated combination. These leaves, when added to the white flowers, create an appearance of snow that gives the plant its name.

Scientific classification

Species

Snow-on-the-mountain (Euphorbia marginata)

Nances, spurges, willows and allies

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Toxic to Humans

Toxicity

Annual, Biennial, Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Summer, Fall

Bloom Time

Late summer

Harvest Time

60 cm to 80 cm

Plant Height

20 cm to 30 cm

Spread

Green, White, Variegated

Leaf Color

Green

Fruit Color

White, Green, Yellow

Flower Color

Green, White, Yellow

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Summer

Growth Season

Moderate

Growth Rate

Images of Snow-on-the-mountain

Distribution of Snow-on-the-mountain

Distribution Map

Snow-on-the-mountain, native to regions in North America, is widely introduced across various continents such as Europe, Asia, Africa, and South America. Beyond its natural range, this plant thrives in temperate to subtropical climates and is also cultivated in numerous areas for ornamental purposes.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Prairies, roadsides, pastures, waste places

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

Grown primarily for its showy foliage and bushy growth habit, snow-on-the-mountain is a refreshing focal point in flower beds and borders. It fits well into city and courtyard gardens, cottage gardens, and informal gardens. Due to its shrubby growth, it can create annual wall side borders and is also an interesting addition to cutting gardens (just beware of its poisonous sap if cutting).

Symbolism

Purification, Protection, Persistence

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Toxicity

Snow-on-the-mountain poses toxicity risks to dogs, cats, and humans through ingestion or contact. All parts contain a milky, white sap causing redness, swelling, and blisters on skin. Eye contact leads to burning and blurry vision; ingestion results in nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Prompt treatment is crucial for pets suspected of exposure.

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Quickly Identify Snow-on-the-mountain

Oval green leaves with striking white margins resemble snow-covered foliage.

Clusters of inconspicuous green flowers surrounded by showy white bracts.

Distinctive three-parted capsule transitioning from green to dark gray upon maturity.

Leaves are oblong with pointed tips, white margins, and stemless.

Stems produce milky latex sap, covered in fine hairs, and flexible with sparse branching.

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Care Guide for Snow-on-the-mountain

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Snow-on-the-mountain, native to North American prairies, thrives with moderate watering, ideally weekly. It prefers a balance of moisture and drought tolerance, requiring adequate humidity indoors to replicate its natural environment. Outdoor cultivation benefits from natural rainfall, supporting optimal growth.

Fertilize: Snow-on-the-mountain requires balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) for robust growth, shifting to high-nitrogen during foliage development. Fertilize monthly at quarter strength in active growth; avoid over-fertilization to prevent leaf burn. Stop fertilization in dormancy and resume in spring for enhanced vigor and dense bracts.

Pruning: Snow-on-the-mountain features variegated leaves and an upright form. Prune in early to late spring to remove damaged stems and shape the plant. Regular pruning enhances foliage density and prevents legginess. Wear gloves to avoid irritation from its sap.

Propagation: Resilient and striking, snow-on-the-mountain thrives with surface sowing for germination. Key requirements include well-draining soil, consistent moisture, and warmth. Once seedlings establish, provide ample sunlight and moderate water to ensure vibrant, variegated foliage enhances garden spaces.

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Images of Snow-on-the-mountain

Distribution of Snow-on-the-mountain

Culture

Toxicity

Quickly Identify Snow-on-the-mountain

Care Guide for Snow-on-the-mountain

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