Canary spurge (Euphorbia mellifera)
Care, watering, light and tips for Canary spurge on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Euphorbiaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Full sun
- Temperature: 10–38 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Canary spurge
Euphorbia mellifera, also known as Honey Spurge, is a fast-growing evergreen shrub native to Macaronesia. It is distinguished by its bright green, narrow, and elongated foliage, and its yellowish inflorescences that appear in spring, attracting pollinators. It is an excellent choice for creating focal points in Mediterranean gardens, informal hedges, or as a standalone specimen in large pots.
Native range
Canary Islands and Madeira
Care tips
It prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soils, tolerating drought once established. Water moderately, allowing the substrate to dry out between waterings, especially in winter to prevent root rot. A common mistake is overwatering, which can be fatal. Protect from severe frosts if you live in cold areas, although it toler tolerates light frosts once mature.
How to save a dying Canary spurge
- Warning signs
- Soft, yellowing, or excessive leaf drop; wrinkled or soft stems.
- First aid
- Check drainage. If potted, remove, inspect roots for rot; trim and repot in fresh, dry substrate. If dry, water moderately.
- What kills it
- Overwatering is its nemesis. It needs very well-draining soil and to dry out between waterings. Waterlogging rots its roots.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if you act quickly. If stems aren't completely soft or the base rotted, there's hope. Less is more with water!