Sea Spurge Euphorbia paralias

Water

The Sea Spurge should be watered thoroughly, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between watering sessions. In general, watering this succulent once every week to two weeks should suffice, but this can vary depending on environmental factors like temperature and humidity. It's better to underwater than overwater, as Sea Spurge is drought-tolerant. Typically, for an average-sized pot, using approximately 16 to 32 ounces of water when the soil is dry should keep the plant healthy without risking overwatering. Adjust the frequency based on the plant's response and the current season, reducing watering in the cooler months.

Light

Sea Spurge thrives best in full sunlight conditions, making it ideal for spots that receive direct, unfiltered sunlight for most of the day. Although this plant can tolerate partial shade, its growth and health are optimal when placed in an area with abundant light. If you're growing Sea Spurge indoors, place it near south or west-facing windows where it will receive ample sunlight, or supplement with grow lights if necessary.

Temperature

Sea Spurge grows best in environments with temperatures ranging from 60°F to 75°F, which are ideal for its growth and development. It can tolerate minimum temperatures down to about 30°F but should be protected from frost to prevent damage. Maximum temperatures for healthy growth should not exceed 90°F. Ensure that the Sea Spurge is positioned in a location where temperature fluctuations are minimal, as sudden changes can stress the plant.

Pruning

Prune Sea Spurge to remove any damaged or diseased parts and to shape the plant as desired. Pruning is best done in the spring when the plant is entering its active growth phase. This plant does not require heavy pruning; a light trimming to maintain its size and remove any unwanted growth is generally sufficient. Always use gloves and protective eyewear when pruning Sea Spurge, as its sap can be irritating to skin and eyes.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Sea Spurge (Euphorbia paralias) thrives in sandy, well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH between 6.0 and 7.5. A mix can be made using two parts sand or grit, one part garden soil, and one part compost or peat. This combination ensures proper drainage and mimics the plant’s natural coastal habitat.

Repotting

Sea Spurge (Euphorbia paralias) is adapted to nutrient-poor conditions and does not require frequent repotting; it should be repotted every two to three years or when it has clearly outgrown its current container.

Humidity & Misting

Sea Spurge (Euphorbia paralias) is tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels; however, it prefers drier conditions typical of its natural coastal and sandy habitats.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place Sea Spurge in a sunny spot with good airflow.

• Outdoor

  Plant in sunny area, well-draining soil, protect from cold.

• Hardiness zone

  8-10 USDA

Life cycle

Euphorbia paralias, commonly known as sea spurge, begins its life cycle as a seed that germinates when conditions are favorable, typically in sandy soils and coastal environments where it's native. After germination, the seedling emerges and develops a root system and foliage, growing into a hardy, herbaceous perennial that can tolerate harsh seaside conditions. As the plant matures, it forms a sturdy stem and produces small, greenish flowers enclosed within specialized structures called cyathia, unique to the Euphorbiaceae family. Following pollination, which is often facilitated by wind or insects, the flowers develop into fruit, specifically a three-lobed capsule that eventually dries and splits open to disperse seeds. The seeds are then spread to new locations by wind, water, or animal activity, allowing the plant to colonize other suitable areas along the coast. This process can repeat annually, with sea spurge plants often forming dense stands that dominate their local habitat.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• The most popular method of propagation for Sea Spurge (Euphorbia paralias) is through its seeds. This plant typically disperses its seeds in late summer or fall, which is the ideal time to collect them for propagation purposes. To propagate Sea Spurge from seed, one should start by sowing the seeds in well-draining soil at a shallow depth, since light aids germination. Covering the soil with a thin layer, no more than a quarter of an inch (about 6 millimeters), will suffice. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged, and the seeds usually require a warm environment to germinate effectively. Once the seedlings have grown strong enough and the risk of frost has passed, they can be transplanted to their final growing position outdoors. It's important to handle the seedlings with care, as Euphorbia sap can be an irritant.