Cushion Spurge Euphorbia epithymoides 'Senior'

Water

The plant commonly known as cushion spurge should be watered regularly, but with care to avoid waterlogging as it prefers well-drained soil. During the growing season in spring and summer, aim to provide about one inch of water per week, either through rainfall or supplemental watering. Adjust the frequency to ensure the soil is moist but not soggy, allowing the topsoil to dry out slightly between watering sessions. In the winter, reduce watering significantly as the plant goes dormant and requires less moisture. It is best to water early in the morning to allow any excess to evaporate during the day.

Light

Cushion spurge thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade. The ideal spot for this plant is in an area where it can receive at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. If the plant is placed indoors or in a garden with limited sunlight, ensure that it has exposure to the brightest light possible during the daylight hours.

Temperature

Cushion spurge prefers temperate conditions and is cold-hardy, typically surviving in temperatures as low as -30°F, making it suitable for USDA hardiness zones 4 to 8. The plant can tolerate high temperatures as long as it is not exposed to extreme heat for prolonged periods. The ideal temperature range for cushion spurge to flourish is between 60°F and 75°F.

Pruning

Cushion spurge benefits from pruning to maintain its shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove spent flowers to potentially prolong the blooming period. It's best to prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Cut back any dead or diseased stems as well as any that may be out of shape. Additionally, after the plant has finished flowering, trim back the flower stems to tidy up the plant and stimulate new foliage growth.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Cushion spurge (Euphorbia epithymoides 'Senior') thrives in well-draining soil with a mix of loam, sand, and organic matter like compost. The ideal soil pH for cushion spurge is between 6.0 and 7.0. A specific recipe could be 2 parts loam, 1 part sand, and 1 part compost or aged manure to ensure nutrients and proper drainage.

Repotting

Cushion spurge typically does not require frequent repotting as it is largely grown as a garden perennial. Repotting can be done every 2-3 years or when it outgrows its current pot or space. However, in garden settings, division may occur every few years to manage growth rather than repotting.

Humidity & Misting

Cushion spurge prefers average humidity conditions and is quite adaptable, not requiring any special humidity modifications. It is well-suited to outdoor humidity levels and does not need the high humidity some houseplants require.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in bright, indirect light; water sparingly.

• Outdoor

  Full sun to part shade, well-drained soil, mulch yearly.

• Hardiness zone

  4-8 USDA

Life cycle

Euphorbia epithymoides 'Senior', commonly known as Cushion Spurge, begins its life cycle as a seed, which, upon finding suitable conditions in terms of soil and temperature, germinates in the spring. The seedling then develops into a compact perennial plant with a dense, rounded form, growing up to 18 inches tall and wide. Throughout the spring and into early summer, it produces bright yellow-green, cup-shaped flowers that create a vibrant display. After flowering, the plant goes into a period of vegetative growth, where it builds up its reserves and prepares for the next flowering season. In the fall, the foliage may take on a reddish or purple hue, contributing to the garden's autumnal color palette. With the onset of winter, the plant becomes dormant, retreating to the root system until the favorable growth conditions of spring return.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring to early summer

• Propogation: The Euphorbia epithymoides 'Senior', commonly known as cushion spurge, is commonly propagated by division, which is best done in the early spring or fall. To propagate by division, dig up an established clump of cushion spurge and carefully separate the root ball into smaller sections, ensuring that each new piece has a portion of the root system attached. These divisions can then be replanted into well-draining soil, spaced approximately 12 inches (30 centimeters) apart to allow room for growth. Water the newly planted divisions regularly to help them establish. This method is popular because it maintains the characteristics of the parent plant and allows gardeners to quickly expand their cushion spurge plantings.