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Euphorbia, one of the largest genera of flowering plants with over 2,000 species, is a member of one of the largest plant families in the world, Euphorbiaceae. Several species are hardy to zone 4, though most Euphorbias are tropical or subtropical in origin.
Commonly known as spurge, Euphorbia varieties range from low-growing ground covers to giant, cactus-like succulents. According to the International Euphorbia Society, flowers are always unisexual, male or female, and in some species occur on separate plants. The flower parts are sometimes highly reduced in the extreme form with a naked stamen on the male flower and a naked pistil on the female flower. A specialized miniature inflorescence called a cyathium is produced in some species, with a single naked female flower surrounded by several naked male flowers. The whole is enclosed in a cup shaped structure, called the involucre, consisting of a unified calyx from which emerge small often minutely fringed bracteoles, which act as a protective cover to the involucre. Between these bracteoles are nectar-producing glands. Something resembling a normal flower is produced. In other species, the flowers and inflorescence are more normal in appearance with male and female flowers bearing a five-part calyx and sometimes corolla, with numerous stamens. Female flowers carry a three part pistil over a three part ovary, producing three or sometimes more seeds. The fruit is usually an explosive capsule.
Euphorbia should be planted in well-drained, even poor soil, in a full sun to slightly shaded location. They are drought tolerant once established and work well in rock gardens, along walls, on hillsides and dry containers. Easy to grow plants, winter wetness is usually the only potential problem as it is resistant to deer and rabbits, and most other pests and diseases. PLANTING: Space plants 15 to 18 inches apart to allow for ultimate growth. Any moderately fertile soil, even one on the sandy side, will do, as long as drainage is good. Choose a location in full sun or part shade in hot climates.
MAINTENANCE: Virtually care free and drought tolerant; once established it will require only light watering during extended dry spells. No division is necessary. We recommend a light winter mulch in zones 4 and 5. If growth becomes loose by mid summer, cut the whole plant back hard and it will regrow in a tight mound.
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