Expert’s choice
Border euphorbias
From sprawling alpines to spiny desert succulents, annuals for cutting to summer container flowers, and the classic Christmas poinsettia, euphorbias are one of the most varied plant groups. Yet the 2,000 species all share two distinctive features: their unique flower structure and their milky sap. At this time of year it’s the spring-flowering Mediterranean sun-lovers and the perennials for dappled shade that catch our attention – just be sure to give each group the right conditions. Evergreen Euphorbia mellifera is big and bold, with honey-scented spring blooms. It’s impressive at its best, but needs warmth and sharp drainage. More manageable, still impressive, and much easier to grow is E. characias, with its huge upright golden-chartreuse flowerheads. Top varieties include dramatic ‘Lambrook Gold’ and neater, blue-grey-leaved ‘Portuguese Velvet’. All are happiest in full sun and well-drained soil. At the other extreme size-wise, but enjoying similar conditions, are the sprawling types, such as Euphorbia myrsinites, which looks great tumbling over rocks, and E. rigida with bluish leaves spiralling around its stems. Dappled shade and richer soil is ideal for Euphorbia epithymoides and its colourful-leaved varieties, which include purple ‘Candy’ and variegated ‘First Blush’.
Position Grow in full sun with good drainage, although Euphorbia epithymoides will take a little shade and richer soil conditions. Care Cut out flower stems once they fade, except on E. epithymoides, which is best sheared down by half, or supported to prevent it collapsing outwards. E. characias may need support in windy sites. Warning The white sap is a skin irritant, so wear gloves and roll down your sleeves when handling these plants. The sap is also poisonous if ingested. Where to buy The Beth Chatto Gardens, bethchatto.co.uk, 01206 822007; Crocus, crocus.co.uk, 01344 578111; Plant Providers, plantproviders.co.uk, 01452 770151.
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