Spurge 'Purple and Gold' Euphorbia characias subsp. wulfenii 'Purple and Gold'

Water

Mediterranean Spurge should be watered thoroughly, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Generally, you can water this plant every 7 to 10 days, depending on the climate and soil drainage. Provide about 1 gallon of water for a medium-sized plant each time you water to ensure deep soil moisture. During the growing season in spring and summer, you may need to water more frequently. In the cooler months, reduce watering, as the plant requires less moisture when dormant.

Light

Mediterranean Spurge thrives best in full sun to partial shade. It is ideal to place it in a spot where it can receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Some dappled shade during the hottest part of the afternoon can be beneficial, especially in very warm climates.

Temperature

Mediterranean Spurge prefers a Mediterranean climate and can tolerate a wide temperature range. It can survive temperatures as low as 20°F but thrives between 50°F to 85°F. It is not suited for extremely cold climates and can be damaged by temperatures below 20°F.

Pruning

Pruning Mediterranean Spurge helps maintain its shape and encourages new growth. Prune the plant back by about a third in late summer or fall, after the flowering season ends. This timing allows the plant to heal before winter. Deadheading spent blooms during the flowering season can also promote a second flush of flowers.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Mediterranean Spurge prefers a well-draining soil mix with sand or gravel for excellent drainage. A soil pH ranging from neutral to slightly alkaline (pH 7.0 to 8.0) is ideal for this plant to thrive. Incorporating organic matter can help improve soil structure, but ensure not to over-enrich as this plant tolerates poor soils.

Repotting

Mediterranean Spurge does not require frequent repotting and can typically be repotted every 2-3 years. It's best to repot in spring or early summer when the plant is entering a growth phase, and to always use a well-draining soil mix to prevent root rot.

Humidity & Misting

Mediterranean Spurge is tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels and thrives best in average room humidity. It doesn't necessitate high humidity environments and can tolerate dry air, making it suitable for typical indoor conditions.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in bright light; not too moist; coarse, well-draining soil.

• Outdoor

  Full sun to partial shade; well-draining soil; hardy and drought-tolerant.

• Hardiness zone

  8-11 USDA

Life cycle

Euphorbia characias subsp. wulfenii 'Purple and Gold', commonly known as Mediterranean Spurge, starts its life cycle as a seed, which after dispersal germinates in favorable conditions of warmth and light. The seedling stage involves the development of a robust root system and the first true leaves. As it enters the vegetative growth stage, it forms a bushy structure with blue-green foliage and begins to develop its characteristic upright stems. During the reproductive stage, usually in late winter to spring, it produces distinctive flowers that have purplish nectar glands surrounded by bright golden-yellow bracts, which attract pollinators for seed production. After pollination and seed set, the plant may go through a period of dormancy during the heat of summer or in response to drought. Finally, as a perennial plant, Mediterranean Spurge will go through multiple cycles of growth and reproduction, though after several years, older plants may become woody and may need to be rejuvenated or replaced.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring to Summer

• Euphorbia characias subsp. wulfenii 'Purple and Gold', commonly known as Mediterranean Spurge, is typically propagated through cuttings. This method is most effective when performed in the summer. To propagate by cuttings, a gardener should select a healthy stem and make a clean cut to remove a piece about 6 inches (15 centimeters) long. It is essential to allow the cutting to dry for a few days to form a callus over the cut surface, which helps prevent rot when planted. The callus formation is a critical step given the milky sap of Euphorbias, which can be irritating to skin and mucous membranes. Once callused, the cutting is then inserted into a well-draining soil mix, ideally with the addition of sand or perlite to enhance drainage. Regular watering and providing indirect light will encourage rooting. It usually takes a few weeks for the cuttings to establish a robust root system.