Euphorbia Growth and Care Guide

Introduction to Euphorbia (Spurge)

With more than 2,000 species in the Euphorbiaceae family, Euphorbia ranges from tidy perennials to bold shrubs and even cactus-like succulents that look like they belong in the desert. You’ll find it growing naturally from the Mediterranean to tropical and arid regions, which tells you just how adaptable it really is. One of its defining traits is that milky sap, which acts as a natural defense and instantly lets you know you’re handling a true Euphorbia.

Most people recognize big names like Euphorbia milii (Crown of Thorns), Euphorbia tirucalli (Fire Sticks), or Euphorbia pulcherrima, but here at the garden center, I focus on the outdoor workhorses. The perennial garden Euphorbias and the airy annual hypericifolia types are where the real landscape magic happens. Sun or shade, wet or dry, I can honestly say perennial Euphorbia outperforms just about any upright perennial in my Zone 8 garden, and it stays evergreen for me, too. I’ve planted it for decades, and it never lets me down.

Right alongside those perennials, I use the white annual Euphorbia every single year to soften bold color schemes and create smooth transitions between darker foliage and flowers. It floats through containers and beds like a veil, tying everything together without overwhelming the design. Between the structural strength of the perennials and the airy lightness of the annuals, Euphorbia is hands-down one of the most versatile, drought-tolerant plants you’ll find at a garden center today. And just between us, I rarely call it “Spurge” anymore, as most folks think of that as a weed. So I stick with Euphorbia and give it the respect it’s earned in my gardens.

Characteristics of Euphorbia (Spurge)

Euphorbia is known for its distinctive foliage, unusual flowers, and ability to thrive in a wide range of environments. Its striking bracts, structural forms, and resilience make it a versatile plant for gardens, containers, and indoor spaces. Whether you're drawn to its colorful accents or its unique textures, Euphorbia adds interest to any landscape design.

In the last two decades, the airy white Euphorbia hypericifolia has become the most popular filler plant in annual containers. Diamond Frost Euphorbia, introduced in 2007 by Proven Winners, spawned a turning point in annual design aesthetics. Currently, there are between 10 and 20 different varieties of Euphorbia hypericifolia/graminea, with airy white bracts on upright stems, and the industry continues to refine these plants with blush and pink colors, as well as double flowering, compact, and more prostrate varieties.

Size and Growth Habit

Leaves and Flowers

Is Euphorbia Annual or Perennial?

Euphorbia hypericifolia (graminea) species are annuals in USDA Hardiness Zones 5-9 though they may bloom year round in warmer climates where there is no freeze. Most Euphorbia species are hardy perennials, thriving in USDA Zones 5–10, though this depends on the variety. In Zones 7-10, most perennial Euphorbia are evergreen, with some exceptions such as Cushion Spurge (i.e., Bonfire & Polychroma) which return reliably year after year.

Best Varieties of Euphorbia (Spurge)

Euphorbia offers an exceptional range of foliage color, structure, and garden performance, making it one of the most versatile genera for modern landscapes and containers. From bold, high-contrast foliage to airy, flower-filled forms, these varieties each play a distinct role in planting design. The selections below represent the best-performing and most design-forward Euphorbia varieties, chosen for reliability, visual impact, and ease of care.

Ascot Rainbow

Although Ascot Rainbow has no trial data to back up its selection as number 1, it is by the far the most searched variety on the internet, 3x more in fact. But, what makes this variant special is by far the coloration. This perennial forms a profusion of upright stems adorned with vivid chartreuse bracts that cradle a tiny burgundy-red central bloom.

Its variegated leaves unfurl with pinkish-red tips that intensify in color in cooler temperatures, while the stems themselves echo the flower’s hue in rich burgundy tones Given that it is an evergreen perennial through Zone 7, can be placed in sun or shade, will endure wet and dry conditions, and has an amazing cut flower, this plant deserves the #1 spot.

Diamond Frost

The introduction of Diamond Frost Euphorbia by Proven Winners circa 2007 changed the way mixed containers were designed. Although there are no trial rankings, its popularity is proven as it is the second most searched Euphorbia name behind #1 Ascot Rainbow. Because of its introduction and success almost 20 years ago, nearly every plant breeder now has some form of Euphorbia hypericifolia (or graminea), and the varieties are expanding every year. 

Other Perennial Euphorbias

So, unlike our usual approach in selecting one variety or a series, we’ve decided to just put it out there. All the perennial varieties are considered the 3rd best choice. They are stunning, they are hardy and we consider them the most versatile perennial on the planet Earth.The list that follows is not exhaustive, as there are other perennial varieties out there. However, this list comprises those perennial varieties most likely to be found in local garden centers:

• Blackbird

• Bonfire

• Glacier Blue

• Tasmanian Tiger

Other Annual Euphorbias

Unless you are an expert on annual white flowering Euphorbia, you will be unable to tell the variety without looking at the tag. Most annual Euphorbia species have been around for 10+ years so most don’t have trial data. In recent test trials, the following received ratings of 4.8-5.0: 

• Starblast Snowdrift (5.0, Raker 2018)

• Starblast Softpink (5.0, Raker 2020)

• Diamond Mountain (4.8, Raker 2018)

• Glamour (5.0, Raker 2019)

• Diamond Snow (5.0, Raker 2019)

• Starblast White (5.0, Raker 2020)

• Star Dust Super Flash (4.83, Penn State 2023)

• Starpleasure Frost (4.83, Penn State 2023)

There are no standouts that show that one is any better than the other. When planted, watered and fertilized appropriately, no variety outperforms the other. Yes, some varieties are more prostrate and have a slight trail. Others have double blooms and are more condensed white. Some are taller and some are shorter. And, yes, there are pink ones now. But, there are really no standouts in annual Euphorbia, even the #2 most popular variety, Diamond Frost. Apologies Proven Winners. 

Please remember that the gorgeous soft white airy Euphorbia is the number one filler plant used in mixed containers today… it makes you wonder what we did before annual Euphorbia came around. But, when people go shopping for annual Euphorbia to fill their containers, it is a rare instance when they ask for a specific cultivar. To them, all annual Euphorbia is the same. 

Note that when advancements finally result in a true trailing variety or a colorful bract that turns heads, then we’ll revise but until then, all annual Euphorbia varieties are deserving of the “Best Variety” ranking – Apologies plant breeders.

How to Grow & Care for Euphorbia (Spurge)

If you want a plant that looks refined but doesn’t demand constant attention, Euphorbia is it. I’ve grown it in just about every condition we have here in the Upstate, and it continues to prove how adaptable and dependable it really is. With the right start, it will reward you with months, sometimes years, of structure, texture, and color without a lot of fuss. Here’s how I recommend planting it for long-term success.

Planting

Sunlight Requirements

When it comes to light, most Euphorbias truly shine in full sun. Give them at least six hours of direct sunlight a day and you’ll get the richest foliage color and the brightest bracts. Most annual Euphorbia will tolerate part sun, but I’ll tell you from experience, they’ll stretch a bit and won’t bloom quite as heavily in too much shade. Perennial Euphorbia can handle part shade, though the foliage color may soften and the plants can get a little leggy, which just means you’ll need to prune to keep them tight. The good news is that even in heavier shade, those spring blooms on perennial types are still generous and colorful.

Soil Requirements

Drainage is everything with Euphorbia. They prefer well draining, sandy or gritty soil that mimics the leaner conditions many of them come from naturally. A neutral to slightly alkaline pH around 6.5 to 7.5 is ideal, but they are generally adaptable. What they absolutely dislike is heavy clay that stays wet. If you are planting in clay, amend deeply at least 6 to 8 inches to improve drainage and protect the roots from rot.

Watering Needs

Water deeply, but do not water often. Let the soil dry between watering, especially once plants are established. In the ground, perennial Euphorbia becomes impressively drought tolerant and rarely needs supplemental irrigation. Containers are a different story. They dry out much faster in Summer heat, so keep an eye on them and water as needed. Overwatering is the fastest way to lose a Euphorbia.

Fertilizer Needs

For perennial Euphorbia, a single application of balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early Spring is usually sufficient to support growth. Annual Euphorbia may benefit from monthly feedings with a water-soluble fertilizer during the growing season to replenish nutrients. No more than that. Over-fertilizing can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of blooms, so moderation is key.

Pruning & Maintenance

For annual Euphorbia, pinching is not necessary. It will self branch without assistance. Prune if necessary to remove damaged stems or for uniformity. For perennial Euphorbia, pinch new plants to promote branching. For established plants, in the spring after blooms are spent, prune to encourage branching. Or better yet, remove blooms to enjoy indoors in vases. By pruning in late spring, you may find your plant blooming again in the fall. When handling Euphorbia, wear gloves, as its sap can irritate the skin and cause allergic reactions. 

Overwintering

In colder climates, tender Euphorbia species should be brought indoors before the first frost and placed in a bright, sunny location. Perennial in-ground varieties can survive winter in snowy zones with added protection, such as a layer of mulch to insulate the roots. Don’t forget that many perennial Euphorbia varieties will be evergreen in Zones 7-10. Proper Winter care ensures Euphorbia returns vibrant and healthy the following growing season.

Common Pests

Euphorbia is naturally tough, but it is not completely immune to pests. The most common issue I see, especially on perennial varieties, is mealybugs. They usually tuck themselves into leaf joints and along stems, looking like tiny bits of white cotton. If left untreated, they can weaken the plant by sucking sap and reducing overall vigor.

I make it a habit to inspect plants regularly, especially in late Spring and Summer when growth is active. At the first sign of infestation, I treat promptly. A systemic product like Acephate will eliminate them effectively, but early detection is always the key to preventing a larger outbreak. Occasionally, you may also see aphids on tender new growth, but they are far less common and much easier to control.

Common Diseases

The number one disease issue with Euphorbia is root rot, and it almost always traces back to excess moisture. Poor drainage, heavy clay soil, or overwatering can quickly lead to declining plants, yellowing foliage, and eventual collapse. Euphorbia prefers to be on the dry side, so improving drainage solves most problems before they start. Powdery mildew can also appear in humid climates, particularly if plants are crowded or airflow is restricted. You may notice a white, dusty coating on the foliage during warm, damp periods. Spacing plants properly, pruning to improve air circulation, and watering at the soil level instead of overhead go a long way toward prevention. Healthy planting practices are far more effective than reactive treatments.

Common Mistakes

Overwatering is by far the most common mistake gardeners make with Euphorbia. Too much moisture suffocates the roots and leads to the very problems people think they are preventing by watering more. Another mistake is planting perennial Euphorbia in heavy shade and expecting the same vivid foliage color and sturdy growth it produces in brighter conditions. While it can tolerate shade, performance and color intensity will be reduced. I also always remind people to wear gloves when pruning or dividing Euphorbia. That milky sap is part of the plant’s natural defense system and can irritate skin or cause mild allergic reactions. A little precaution goes a long way.

Common Misconceptions

Using Euphorbia in the Garden

I use Euphorbia when I need structure, contrast, and reliability in a design. Its wide range of forms, from tight mounds to airy fillers, allows it to function beautifully in both ornamental beds and practical landscape settings. Whether I am softening hard lines or adding year-round backbone to a planting, Euphorbia earns its place.

Borders and Rock Gardens

Containers and Indoor Plants

Euphorbia Adds Texture and Drama

Looking to add bold texture and dependable structure to your garden? At Garden Delivery, we carry a carefully selected lineup of Euphorbia varieties chosen for performance, resilience, and real landscape impact. These are not random selections. They are grown from exceptional stock and trialed for strong branching, vibrant bracts, and reliable garden behavior. With their architectural form, signature milky sap, drought tolerance, and natural deer resistance, Euphorbia delivers beauty without constant maintenance.