Cypress Spurge Euphorbia cyparissias 'Fens Ruby'

Names

• Family

  Euphorbiaceae

• Synonyms

  Cypress Spurge, Graveyard Moss, Fens Ruby

• Common names

  Euphorbia cyparissias 'Fens Ruby'

Toxicity

• To humans

  Cypress spurge, the common name for Euphorbia cyparissias 'Fens Ruby', contains a toxic milky sap known for causing skin irritation and sometimes blisters upon contact. If ingested, this sap can induce nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. In severe cases, it may lead to more serious symptoms such as difficulty swallowing, throat swelling, or even systemic reactions in individuals with high sensitivity. It is imperative to avoid ingestion and minimize skin contact with the sap, and if exposure occurs, seek medical attention.

• To pets

  For pets, cypress spurge is similarly toxic due to its milky sap. If pets come into contact with or ingest the plant, they may experience symptoms such as drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, and difficulty breathing. The skin and mouth may also become irritated, and there is a risk of eye irritation if the sap comes into contact with the pet's eyes. If a pet is suspected of ingesting cypress spurge or having significant contact with its sap, immediate veterinary care is advised.

Characteristics

• Life cycle

  Perennials

• Foliage type

  Deciduous

• Color of leaves

  Green

• Flower color

  Yellow

• Height

  1 foot (30 cm)

• Spread

  1 foot (30 cm)

• Plant type

  Herb

• Hardiness zones

  4

• Native area

  Europe

General Benefits

• Low Maintenance: Euphorbia cyparissias 'Fens Ruby', commonly known as Cypress Spurge 'Fens Ruby', is a hardy plant that requires minimal care once established.
• Drought Resistance: It has good drought tolerance, making it suitable for xeriscaping or for gardens in dry climates.
• Attractive Foliage: The plant features attractive, needle-like leaves that change from bright green to red or purple, adding color interest to the garden.
• Rapid Growth: Cypress Spurge 'Fens Ruby' grows quickly, providing fast coverage and filling in garden spaces efficiently.
• Erosion Control: Its dense growth habit makes it useful for stabilizing soil and preventing erosion on slopes or banks.
• Adaptability: It can adapt to a wide range of soil types and is not fussy about pH levels.
• Ground Cover: It serves as an excellent ground cover, suppressing weeds and covering large areas with minimal effort.
• Wildlife Attraction: While the sap is toxic to humans and animals, the plant can attract beneficial insects like pollinators to the garden.
• Seasonal Interest: In addition to its foliage, the plant produces small yellow flowers that add visual interest during its blooming period.
• Landscape Versatility: This plant can be used in rock gardens, borders, and as a filler plant, providing versatility in landscape design.

Medical Properties

• This plant is not used for medical purposes.

Air-purifying Qualities

This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.

Other Uses

• Cypress Spurge 'Fens Ruby' can be used as a natural dye, providing shades of yellow or green depending on the mordant used.
• It may be included in a wildlife garden to provide a habitat for certain species of moths and butterflies that use it as a food source.
• Gardeners can cultivate Cypress Spurge 'Fens Ruby' for its attractive foliage as a ground cover in rock gardens or alpine collections.
• Some artists may use the latex sap of Cypress Spurge 'Fens Ruby' as a medium in natural painting techniques, though this is rare and must be handled with care due to potential skin irritation.
• The dense mat of Cypress Spurge 'Fens Ruby' can be used to stabilize soil on slopes or banks to prevent erosion.
• Photographers might seek out Cypress Spurge 'Fens Ruby' for its vibrant foliage and interesting texture as a subject for botanical photography.
• Interplanted in a vegetable garden, Cypress Spurge 'Fens Ruby' could potentially distract certain pests away from more valuable crops.
• Its unique texture and color can be used in dried flower arrangements and crafts for a touch of natural, muted tones.
• Cypress Spurge 'Fens Ruby' can act as a "nurse plant" providing shelter for young, delicate plants that need protection from the wind or intense sun.
• Traditional crafts sometimes make use of dried Euphorbia stems, including those of Cypress Spurge 'Fens Ruby,' for basket weaving or ornamental designs.

Feng Shui

The Cypress Spurge is not used in Feng Shui practice.

Zodiac Sign Compitability

The Cypress Spurge is not used in astrology practice.

Plant Symbolism

• Persistence and Resilience: Euphorbia cyparissias, commonly known as Cypress Spurge, is known for its hardy nature and ability to survive in tough conditions, symbolizing the human traits of persistence and resilience.
• Caution and Hazard: The plant is toxic and can cause skin irritation upon contact, which is why it symbolizes caution and the need to be aware of potential dangers.
• Transformation and Renewal: Cypress Spurge has a lifecycle that includes periods of dormancy followed by vigorous growth, representing transformation and the ability to renew oneself.
• Protection: In some cultures, Euphorbia species are thought to have protective qualities, thus Cypress Spurge may symbolize safeguarding oneself or one's home from harm.