Scientific Name
Euphorbia myrsinites L.
Common Name(s)
Myrtle Spurge, Myrtle Euphorbia, Donkey Tail Spurge, Donkey Tail, Blue Spurge, Broad-Leaved Glaucous Spurge, Creeping Spurge
Synonym(s)
Euphorbia myrsinites subsp. myrsinites, Endoisila myrsinites, Euphorbion myrsinitum, Galarhoeus myrsinites, Murtekias myrsinites, Tithymalus myrsinites
Scientific Classification
Family: Euphorbiaceae
Subfamily: Euphorbioideae
Tribe: Euphorbieae
Subtribe: Euphorbiinae
Genus: Euphorbia
Flower
Color: Greenish-yellow
Bloom Time: Summer
Description
Euphorbia myrsinites is an attractive low-growing succulent with sprawling stems that grow up to 16 inches (40 cm) long. The leaves are spirally arranged, fleshy, pale glaucous, and up to 1 inch (2.5 cm) long. Flowers and their subtending bracts are initially greenish-yellow but deepen to a red hue by summer.
How to Grow and Care
Euphorbias are very easy to care for. They require a little pampering to become established, but once they are, they are self-sufficient. 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.
See more at How to Grow and Care for Euphorbia.
Origin
This species is native to southeastern Europe and Asia Minor, from Italy east through the Balkans to Crimea and Turkey.
Links
- Back to genus Euphorbia
- Plantpedia: Browse flowering plants by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, or Origin
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