Mediterranean Spurge Euphorbia characias 'Tasmanian Tiger' (PBR) (v)

Water

Spurge 'Tasmanian Tiger' prefers to be watered deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Typically, watering once a week during active growth in the spring and summer months is sufficient. Reduce the frequency in the fall and further in winter to every two to three weeks, depending on the humidity and temperature. Applying about 1 gallon of water to the root zone each time ensures the soil is moist but not waterlogged, which is critical to prevent root rot. Always check the top inch of soil for dryness before watering.

Light

Spurge 'Tasmanian Tiger' thrives best in full sun to partial shade. An ideal spot would be one where the plant receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight every day, with some dappled afternoon shade in hotter climates. Avoid placing it in deep shade, as this can affect its growth and flower production.

Temperature

Spurge 'Tasmanian Tiger' can endure a range of temperatures but grows optimally between 50°F and 75°F. It is cold hardy to about 20°F and can tolerate high temperatures well into the 80s and 90s°F if properly cared for. However, extended exposure to temperatures above 100°F or below 20°F can be harmful.

Pruning

Spurge 'Tasmanian Tiger' should be pruned to remove faded flowers and maintain its shape. This is best done in late winter or early spring before new growth starts. Pruning encourages more vigorous growth and can help prevent the plant from becoming leggy. It is not necessary to prune frequently; once a year is generally sufficient.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Mediterranean Spurge, commonly known as 'Tasmanian Tiger', thrives best in a well-draining soil mix with added sand or perlite. An ideal pH range for this euphorbia is between 6.0 and 7.5, leaning towards slightly acidic to neutral. Incorporating organic matter like compost will improve nutrient content but ensure the soil remains loose and not waterlogged.

Repotting

Tasmanian Tiger should be repotted every two to three years to refresh the soil and accommodate root growth. This variety of Mediterranean Spurge does not require frequent repotting due to its moderate growth rate.

Humidity & Misting

Mediterranean Spurge 'Tasmanian Tiger' is tolerant of dry atmospheres and prefers low to moderate humidity levels, typical of Mediterranean climates, without the need for special humidity considerations.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place 'Tasmanian Tiger' in bright, indirect light inside.

• Outdoor

  Plant in full sun to part shade in well-draining soil.

• Hardiness zone

  7-10 USDA

Life cycle

The life of the Euphorbia characias 'Tasmanian Tiger' begins with seed germination, typically occurring in a well-draining, warm, and bright environment. After germination, the seedling emerges and grows into a juvenile plant, developing its characteristic variegated foliage of creamy white and green. As the plant matures, it forms a bushy, upright habit and can reach up to 3 feet in height, entering its vegetative stage where it continues to produce leaves and stems. This perennial then enters its flowering stage in spring or early summer, displaying long-lasting, showy bracts that surround the true but inconspicuous flowers. After the blooming period, seed set may occur if pollinators have been active or if the conditions favor self-fertilization, depending on the specific reproductive biology of this cultivar. Finally, the plant goes through a period of dormancy, particularly in colder climates, where it may die back to the ground before resuming growth in the following spring, completing the annual cycle of the perennial plant.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring to Early Summer

• The Euphorbia characias 'Tasmanian Tiger,' commonly known as the Spurge, can be propagated most effectively through stem cuttings. The ideal time to take these cuttings is during the late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. To propagate by cuttings, a gardener should select a healthy, non-flowering stem and make a cut using a sharp, sterilized blade, ensuring the cutting is about 3 to 5 inches long (approximately 7.5 to 12.7 centimeters). The lower leaves should be removed, and the cut end can be dipped in rooting hormone before being planted in a well-draining soil mix. To maintain humidity, the cutting can be covered with a plastic bag or placed in a propagator. In a few weeks, when the cuttings have rooted, they can be potted up into individual containers.