 Euphorbia 'Blackbird' (PP# 17,178)
- common names: spurge
- flowering season: summer
- height: 2 feet
- Light requirements: sun or partial sun
- Soil requirements: average; well drained
- Water requirments: low water needs
- Growth habit: bushy and branching
- Leaf type: evergreen leaves that are very dark when grown in strong sunlight
- Ways to use: adaptable to many different circumstances such as growing in a pot by itself or when combined with other richly clothed perennials; combines well when added to a foundation planting of mixed shrubs; complements many flowering perennials
- Special characteristics: when cut or broken the stems exude a white sap that can irritate the skin -- if you are not wearing gloves, allow the sap to dry on the plant before you risk touching it; and be sure not to touch your eyes if you get any sap on your hands or gloves
Plants with dark foliage have been growing in popularity in recent years. This new plant has dark purple, evergreen foliage when grown in full sun, turning lighter with any shade. The dark leaves and stems make a wonderful contrast to silvery foliage. It is drought tolerant after growing a good root structure, and will be undemanding in your garden. Growing to 2 feet wide and tall, it's of a size that would be suitable for a container with several other plants. It's especially useful in fall/winter/early-spring container gardens where winters are mild. Reddish flower buds in spring open into lime-green flowers that persist for a long time. They are easily removed if desired. Be careful any time a branch is cut because a milky sap exudes from the stems that can irritate the skin. This white latex sap dries within a day. USDA Zones 6 - 9. |
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