Guide to growing Spurge Euphorbia
Information on Euphorbia has been split into two, this section includes information on the perennial varieties.
These plants have outstanding horizontal leaves and bracts, making them a very attractive feature in borders or for use as edging plants.
They can reach heights of between 15 and 90cm, and the flowering time depends on the species (though never in the winter.
Some of the common names for perennial Euphorbia members include Spurge, Flowereing Spurge, Wood Spurge and Scarlet Plume.
How to grow Spurge (Euphorbia)
Spurge can be grown straight outdoors by sowing the seeds at a depth of 3mm after the last frost of spring. They should be sown in either a sunny or partially shaded part of the garden, they prefer a poor soil (ph 6 to 7) that can be moist. if you prefer to start perennial Euphorbia species indoors first then they should be prepared about 7 or 8 weeks before they are due to be put in the garden following the last frost of spring. The seeds should be pretreated by placing in a refrigerator for one week, then imbibing in warm water for about two hours. The Spurge seeds should then be planted into peat pots. It will take about two to four weeks for the spurge seeds to germinate at 18 to 20 degrees centigrade.
Caring for Spurge
Once the Spurge is growing more plants can be had by taking cuttings once flowering has occurred or by collecting more seed. Perennial Euphorbia should be watered regular while it is growing.