Spurge 'Black Pearl' Euphorbia characias 'Black Pearl'

Water

Mediterranean Spurge requires moderate watering, especially during its blooming period in spring and summer. It should be watered when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Generally, this means watering approximately once a week, but frequency should be adjusted according to weather conditions, with less water required during cool or rainy periods. Provide about 1 gallon of water to thoroughly soak the soil around the plant, ensuring even moisture penetration. During winter, reduce watering significantly to prevent waterlogging, as the plant is drought-tolerant and prefers drier conditions in its dormant phase.

Light

Mediterranean Spurge thrives in full sun to partial shade. The ideal spot for this plant is a location where it can receive at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can lead to leggy growth and fewer blooms, so areas with bright, unfiltered light are preferable.

Temperature

Mediterranean Spurge is hardy and can handle temperatures as low as 30°F but should be protected from frost. The ideal growing temperature for the plant ranges from 50°F to 75°F. It can withstand some heat, but excessive temperatures above 86°F may stress the plant. Providing ample air circulation can help maintain optimal conditions during hotter periods.

Pruning

Pruning Mediterranean Spurge is crucial to maintain shape, encourage bushy growth, and remove spent flowers to promote new blooms. The best time to prune is late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Cut back the plant by about one-third of its size to stimulate healthy development. Deadheading, or the removal of old blooms, should be done as soon as flowers fade.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Mediterranean Spurge, often named Euphorbia characias 'Black Pearl', thrives best in a well-draining soil mix with plenty of grit or sand to ensure proper drainage. An ideal soil mix would consist of 2 parts loam, 1 part sand or perlite, and 1 part peat or humus. The soil pH suitable for this plant should be slightly alkaline, around 7.0 to 7.5.

Repotting

Mediterranean Spurge, or Euphorbia characias 'Black Pearl', does not require frequent repotting; every 2-3 years is sufficient. This plant prefers to be slightly root-bound, so only repot when you notice signs of the plant outgrowing its current pot or if there is significant soil degradation.

Humidity & Misting

Mediterranean Spurge, or Euphorbia characias 'Black Pearl', is well adapted to a range of humidity levels and does not require high humidity. It is quite drought-tolerant once established, and typical outdoor humidity levels are generally sufficient.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in bright light, minimal water.

• Outdoor

  Full sun to partial shade, well-drained area.

• Hardiness zone

  7-10 USDA

Life cycle

Euphorbia characias 'Black Pearl', commonly known as Mediterranean Spurge or Black Pearl Spurge, starts its life cycle with seed germination, which typically occurs in warm, moist soil conditions. Once the seedling emerges, it enters the vegetative stage, where it develops a strong, woody root system and begins to grow its characteristic foliage—long-lasting, blue-green leaves with a distinctive upright habit. Over time, the plant matures and reaches its reproductive stage, producing unique bracts and cyathia (the true flowers) that can exhibit a dark, almost black central gland, giving the 'Black Pearl' its name. After pollination, the plant sets seeds, which are then dispersed, often by wind, to initiate a new generation. The plant is perennial, and as it ages, it may begin to decline in vigor, potentially leading to a dormant or senescent phase before it completes its life cycle. Regular pruning and removal of spent flowers can encourage new growth and prolong the plant's attractive appearance and lifespan.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• Propogation: Euphorbia characias 'Black Pearl', commonly known as the Mediterranean Spurge, is typically propagated by seed or cuttings. However, the most popular method is by taking cuttings. To propagate by cuttings, in late spring or early summer, select a healthy, non-flowering shoot and cut a 3 to 4-inch (approximately 7.5 to 10 cm) section. Strip the lower leaves from the cutting and allow the cut end to dry and form a callus for a few days. After the callus forms, insert the cutting into a well-draining soil mix, and keep it moist but not wet. Place the pot in a warm environment with indirect light. Roots should develop within a few weeks, after which the new plant can be gradually acclimated to outdoor conditions.