How to Grow Myrtle Spurge
Myrtle Spurge
Euphorbia myrsinites
shrubMyrtle spurge is a low-growing, succulent evergreen shrub with trailing stems and distinctive blue-green foliage arranged in tight spirals. It produces chartreuse-yellow flower bracts in spring and is known for its architectural form and drought tolerance. This Mediterranean native has become popular in rock gardens, containers, and xeriscaping despite being considered invasive in some regions.
When should you plant Myrtle Spurge in your zone?
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Example Myrtle Spurge timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Myrtle Spurge
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Myrtle Spurge
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Myrtle Spurge dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 5-10, with best performance in zones 6-9
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Get my Myrtle Spurge timeline →Growth Stages
Seedling
2-3 weeksTiny rosette of blue-green foliage emerges, leaves tightly spiraled
Keep soil barely moist, ensure excellent drainage, provide bright light. Avoid overwatering which causes damping off.
Vegetative Growth
3-6 monthsPlant develops trailing or sprawling stems with densely-packed succulent leaves in distinctive spiral pattern
Water infrequently; allow to dry between waterings. Gradually reduce watering as plant matures. Minimal fertilizer needed.
Flowering
4-6 weeks, typically March-MayTerminal flower bracts appear in shades of bright yellow-green to lime-yellow; true flowers are small and inconspicuous within the bracts
Maintain dry conditions; do not fertilize. Allow flowers to remain for ornamental interest as bracts persist for weeks.
Seed Development
4-8 weeksFlower bracts fade as seed capsules develop within; plant returns to foliage-focused appearance
Continue sparse watering. Remove spent bracts if desired for tidiness. Allow seeds to self-sow if invasiveness is not a concern.
Dormancy/Rest
3-4 months, November-FebruaryGrowth slows significantly in winter; foliage may take on purplish tones in cold zones; plant appears compact
Reduce water to minimal amounts. Provide excellent drainage to prevent root rot during wet winter months. In cold zones, ensure good air circulation.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with water to dislodge; apply neem oil or insecticidal soap if severe. Improve air circulation.
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Dab with rubbing alcohol on affected areas; spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap. Remove heavily infested stems.
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Improve drainage immediately. Allow soil to dry out completely. Remove affected plant material. May require repotting in fresh dry soil.
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Remove by hand in early morning. Create barriers with gravel mulch. Avoid mulches that retain moisture.
Uses
Ornamental Rock Gardens & Containers
HouseholdMyrtle spurge's architectural form, compact size, and unique blue-green spiral foliage make it ideal for rock gardens, alpine troughs, containers, and succulent arrangements. Its low maintenance and drought tolerance reduce watering requirements. [source]
Groundcover & Trailing Plant
HouseholdThe trailing or mounding habit makes it useful as a spillover plant in containers, hanging baskets, or as a low groundcover on slopes and banks where water drainage is excellent. [source]
Cut Flower Arrangements
WildlifeThe yellow-green flower bracts provide color and texture to spring and early summer arrangements and are long-lasting both in water and dried. [source]
Traditional Herbal Use
MedicinalEuphorbia species have been used in traditional medicine for various purposes, though myrtle spurge contains toxins and should not be used without expert guidance. Skin contact with sap can cause irritation. [source]
Dried Arrangements & Craft
CraftFlower bracts dry well and retain color, making them suitable for dried flower arrangements, craft projects, and botanical displays. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Myrtle spurge is ornamental rather than harvested. Collect seeds in late spring/early summer if desired for propagation or sharing. Cut stems for arrangements when flower bracts are fully colored. Wear gloves when handling as the milky sap can irritate skin.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Myrtle spurge's scientific name Euphorbia references Euphorbus, a Greek physician to an African king, honoring the plant's historical medicinal significance—though it is toxic and should not be ingested.
- 🌱 The milky white sap (latex) contains diterpenes and can cause dermatitis in sensitive individuals; the plant evolved this defense mechanism to deter herbivores in its Mediterranean homeland.
- 🌱 The distinctive spiral arrangement of leaves is called 'phyllotaxis' and follows mathematical Fibonacci patterns, allowing maximum light exposure while minimizing self-shading—nature's efficient engineering.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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