Euphorbia myrsinites Family: Euphorbiaceae
(yew-FOR-bee-ah mur-sin-EE-teez)

Common name: donkey tail spurge; myrtle spurge
Zone: 4 – 9
Height: 6-12 in (15-30 cm) Spread: 12-24 in (30-60 cm)
Aspect: full sun; partial shade
Soil: average; well-draining
Water: minimal

Description: An evergreen perennial with floppy stems in a mounding form. Chalky blue-green, semi-succulent leaves are arranged in close spirals around stems. Showy, bright chartreuse-yellow bracts appear at the branch tips in early spring through early summer.

Special Notes: Native to southern Europe through central Asia. An unusual plant for the rockery, container or front of the border. Drought tolerant. Few pest or disease problems. May suffer some snow damage. Deer and rabbit resistant. Propagate by seed or by division in early spring.

Caution: Milky sap can cause skin and severe eye irritation. Wash immediately with water. Toxic if ingested.

RHS Award of Garden Merit 1993

Posted on July 31, 2012