Cushion spurge, Euphorbia, is a perennial that forms mounds of small green leaves on upright stems. In spring, it bears small yellow flowers surrounded by lime-yellow bracts. Cushion spurge is best planted in groups and at the front of beds.
Get to Know Cushion Spurge
- Plant type: Perennial
- Growing Zones and range: 4-8
- Hardiness: Hardy
- Height and width: 12”- 18” tall; 12”- 18” wide
- Flowers: Bright yellow flowers surround chartreuse bracts; foliage turns shades of purple, red, yellow, and orange in fall
- Bloom time: Mid-spring
- Uses: Place at the front of borders or use as edging plant; grows well in containers; combine with spring-blooming bulbs, hardy geraniums, and blue plumbago
- Botanical name: Euphorbia polychrome (Euphorbia epithymoides)
- Common name: Cushion Spurge
Where to Plant Cushion Spurge
- Plant cushion spurge in full sun in Zones 4-6 and Pacific Northwest; plant in shade in Zones 7-8.
- Grow plant spurge in sandy, well-drained soil.
When to Plant Cushion Spurge
- Set out established plants in spring or fall.
Planting and Spacing Cushion Spurge
- Space cushion spurge 12 to 18 inches apart.
How to Water and Feed Cushion Spurge
- Give cushion spurge moderate water; established plants can tolerate drought.
- Fertilize cushion spurge occasionally.
Cushion Spurge Care
- Mulch around cushion spurge to conserve soil moisture.
- Cushion spurge can become invasive in moist soil.
- Divide cushion spurge when plants become floppy, every few years.
- Cushion spurge is commonly pest and disease-free.
