Mediterranean spurge (Euphorbia characias)
Care, watering, light and tips for Mediterranean spurge on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Euphorbiaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 10 days
- Light: Full sun
- Temperature: 10–38 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Mediterranean spurge
Euphorbia characias, also known as Mediterranean Spurge, is a robust and striking perennial plant native to the Mediterranean basin. It is characterized by its dense spikes of chartreuse-yellow flowers (cyathia) with a dark eye, appearing in late winter and early spring. It is ideal for low-maintenance gardens, rockeries, or as a focal point in flower beds due to its distinctive texture and color.
Native range
Mediterranean region
Care tips
It thrives in full sun to partial shade and requires well-drained soil, preferably sandy or stony, as it does not tolerate waterlogging. Once established, it is very drought-tolerant and needs minimal watering. Avoid contact with the milky sap, as it is an irritant to skin and eyes; wear gloves when pruning.
How to save a dying Mediterranean spurge
- Warning signs
- Yellowing lower leaves, soft stems, premature leaf drop.
- First aid
- Drastically reduce watering, ensure good drainage. Remove soft stems.
- What kills it
- Overwatering and poor drainage, easily rotting roots.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if roots aren't completely rotted and watering is corrected.