Botanical Name: Euphorbia amygdaloides ‘Blackbird’ Common Name: Spurge Hardiness Zone: Perennial in Most Climates (USDA Zones 6–9) Size: 18–24" Tall × 18–24" Spread Growth Habit: Upright, Clumping, Shrubby Habit Sunlight: Full Sun to Partial Shade Soil: Well-Drained Soil; Tolerates Poor or Rocky Soils Water Needs: Low to Moderate; Drought Tolerant Once Established Bloom Season: Early to Mid-Spring Fertilizer: Minimal; Avoid Excess Fertility Features: Deep Purple-Black Foliage, Chartreuse Spring Bracts, Evergreen to Semi-Evergreen, Deer Resistant Uses: Borders, Woodland Gardens, Shade Gardens, Foliage Contrast, Low-Maintenance Landscapes

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See our complete Euphorbia Growth & Care Guide for full care details.

More About Euphorbia ‘Blackbird’

Euphorbia ‘Blackbird’ is prized for its dramatic, near-black foliage that provides striking contrast throughout the growing season. In early spring, stems are topped with vivid chartreuse bracts that glow against the dark leaves, creating one of the most eye-catching color combinations in perennial gardens.

Unlike many euphorbias grown primarily for flowers, ‘Blackbird’ delivers season-long foliage interest. The upright, clumping habit stays tidy and architectural, making it easy to integrate into both formal and naturalistic plantings.

Why We Like It (Our Trials)

In our trials, ‘Blackbird’ has proven to be exceptionally tough and dependable. It handles heat, drought, and variable light conditions with ease, maintaining rich foliage color without burning or fading.

We especially appreciate its low-maintenance nature. Deer avoid it, pests are rarely an issue, and once established it requires very little care. It performs beautifully in mixed borders, woodland edges, and partially shaded beds where dark foliage is hard to come by.

Blackbird vs. Other Euphorbia Varieties

Blackbird delivers the darkest foliage in this Euphorbia lineup, creating dramatic contrast and visual weight in the landscape. Its deep purple-black leaves and stems give it a strong architectural presence that works especially well in modern and contemporary designs. Even without flowers, Blackbird commands attention and provides a powerful backdrop for lighter or brighter companions.

Compared to Bonfire Euphorbia, Blackbird is cooler and more controlled, trading warmth for depth. Against Tasmanian Tiger, it feels heavier and more grounded, lacking variegation but gaining intensity. When placed beside Ascot Rainbow or Glacier Blue, Blackbird sharpens their lighter tones and adds contrast. Paired with Diamond Frost, it creates one of the strongest light-dark combinations in the garden. Gardeners choose Blackbird when they want dramatic contrast and bold, moody foliage that anchors a planting.