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Euphorbia myrsinites 'Myrtle Spurge' (4 Inch) is a unique and attractive ground cover plant known for its distinctive foliage and striking appearance. It adds a touch of color and texture to garden landscapes with its fleshy, evergreen leaves and bright, colorful bracts.
Description:
- Dimensions: Grows to a height of 6-12 inches with a spread of 18-24 inches.
- Sun Exposure: Thrives in full sun to partial shade, ideally receiving 4-6 hours of sunlight daily.
- Water Requirements: Prefers well-drained soil and is drought-tolerant once established. Water regularly during the first growing season to establish roots, then reduce watering as needed.
- Hardiness Zones: Hardy in Zones 5-9.
- Bloom Time: Blooms in late spring to early summer, producing inconspicuous greenish-yellow flowers surrounded by vibrant, colorful bracts. The primary attraction is the unusual foliage and colorful bracts.
- Pruning: Minimal pruning needed. Trim back any dead or damaged foliage as needed to maintain appearance and encourage dense growth.
How to Plant:
- Location: Ideal for garden beds, borders, or as a ground cover in both sunny and partially shaded locations. Particularly suited for areas with well-draining soil.
- Soil Preparation: Use well-draining soil, preferably sandy or gravelly. Amend with compost if necessary to improve soil structure and drainage.
- Planting: Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and the same depth. Place the plant in the hole, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface.
- Spacing: Space plants 18-24 inches apart to allow for their mature spread and to ensure good coverage.
- Watering: Water thoroughly after planting and maintain consistent moisture during the first growing season. Once established, reduce watering frequency as the plant is drought-tolerant.
Fun Fact: Euphorbia myrsinites, or Myrtle Spurge, is known for its striking, succulent-like foliage and its bright, colorful bracts that create a dramatic effect in the garden. Its unique appearance and low maintenance requirements make it a popular choice for adding visual interest to dry, sunny areas. Additionally, the plant exudes a milky latex sap when cut or damaged, which can be a deterrent to some pests and diseases.