Scientific Name
Euphorbia characias L.
Common Name(s)
Albanian Spurge, Mediterranean Spurge
Synonym(s)
Esula characias, Euphorbia characias subsp. characias, Tithymalus characias
Scientific Classification
Family: Euphorbiaceae
Subfamily: Euphorbioideae
Tribe: Euphorbieae
Subtribe: Euphorbiinae
Genus: Euphorbia
Description
Euphorbia characias is a compact evergreen shrub with grey-green leaves that grow in spirals around many upright stems. It can grow up to 4 feet (1.2 m) tall and 3 feet (0.9 m) wide.
From spring to early summer, at the top of the stems, the plant produces bottlebrush-shaped clusters of cyathia with yellow-green bracts and characteristic black or dark brown nectar glands. The fruits are round and hairy capsules.
Etymology
The specific epithet "characias (kar-RAY-see-as)" is a Latinized word from "xaraxias," the ancient name Dioscorides (40-90 AD) gave this species in the first century AD.
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zones 7a to 10b: from 0 °F (−17.8 °C) to 40 °F (+4.4 °C).
How to Grow and Care
Euphorbias are very easy to care for. These plants require a little pampering to become established, but once they are, they are self-sufficient. In fact, more die from too much care and watering than from neglect. Euphorbias need well-draining soil and lots of sunlight. They are not particular about soil pH but cannot tolerate wet soil. Unlike most succulents, Euphorbia does not handle long periods of drought well. It may need weekly watering during the summer. Water whenever the soil is dry several inches below the surface. Water deeply, but don't let them sit in wet soil, which can cause root rot. Add some organic matter or fertilizer to the planting hole. Feed with a half-strength fertilizer monthly if you are growing them in containers or your soil is poor.
These succulents can be grown from seed, but they can be difficult to germinate (or even find). They are usually propagated by cuttings. This can be tricky because of the exuding sap. Rooting hormone is recommended with Euphorbias. They tend to grow problem-free, but there are a few pests and diseases to be alert for.
See more at How to Grow and Care for Euphorbia.
Origin
Euphorbia characias is native to the Mediterranean region.
Cultivars and Hybrids
Links
- Back to genus Euphorbia
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
Photo Gallery
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