Cushion Spurge (Euphorbia epithymoides syn. polychroma) seeds
- A distinctive feature of Cushion Spurge is its bright yellow to golden-yellow blooms, which appear from late spring to early summer (April to June).
- Inhalt: Ca. 25 Samen
- Samenfeste Sorte, Keimfähigkeit regelmäßig geprüft.
€3.19
Description
Euphorbia epithymoides, also known as Euphorbia polychroma, is a fascinating and versatile plant belonging to the spurge family (Euphorbiaceae). This perennial is known for its dense, dome-shaped clumps, which can reach a height of around 30–50 cm.
One of the most striking features of Cushion Spurge is its bright yellow to golden-yellow bracts, which appear from late spring to early summer (April to June). These vibrant blooms add a splash of colour to any border and attract a wide range of pollinators. The lance-shaped green leaves are also noteworthy, turning a beautiful reddish to bronze hue in autumn.
In terms of care, Cushion Spurge is extremely low-maintenance and drought-tolerant once established. It requires only occasional watering, particularly during prolonged dry spells. Deadheading spent flowers can help maintain a tidy appearance and encourage a compact habit.
Another key advantage is its excellent winter hardiness – it can tolerate temperatures down to -20°C, making it suitable for a range of temperate climates.
Note: Caution is advised when handling this plant, as it exudes a white, milky sap that can irritate the skin. Wearing gloves and avoiding direct contact is strongly recommended.
Plant profile
| Plant type | Container plant, Herbaceous plant |
|---|---|
| Use | Container plant, Cut flower, Good insect food plant, Ornamental plant, Scented plant |
| Lifecycle | Perennial |
| Species | Euphorbiaceae |
| Seed propagation | Conventional production |
| Region of origin | Eastern Europe, Southern Europe, Turkey |
| Characteristics | Forms runners, Needs cold to germinate, Poisonous plant, Self-seeds, Very resistant to slugs and snails |
| Eventual height | 15-30 cm |
| Flower colour | Yellow |
| Flowering months | April, May |
| Winter hardiness zones | 6 (-23 bis -18 °C) |
Growing instructions
| When to sow outdoors | February, March, October, September |
|---|---|
| Sowing depth | 0.5 cm |
| Germination temperature | 15-20°C |
| Germination time | 1-2 weeks |
| Climate | Temperate |
| Soil type | Chalky, Free-draining |
| Sunlight | Full sun, Halbschatten |
| Water requirement | Medium |
| Planting distance | 40 cm |
Sowing and care
Sowing can be carried out in spring (March to April) or autumn (September to October). Autumn sowing allows the seeds to undergo a natural cold period over winter, which promotes germination in spring, as this species requires cold to germinate (cold-germinator). The seeds need cold stratification to break dormancy. This can be achieved either by sowing before winter or by storing the seeds at a temperature of 1–5 °C for around 4–6 weeks (e.g. in a refrigerator).
Other names
Botanical name: Euphorbia epithymoides, Euphorbia polychroma, Euphorbia villosa,
German: Gold-Wolfsmilch, Bunte Wolfsmilch, Vielfarbige Wolfsmilch
English: Cushion Spurge, Many-coloured Spurge,
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