Euphorbia amygdaloides aka Wood Spurge

Euphorbia amygdaloides, or wood spurge, is an evergreen perennial. It belongs to the spurge family, Euphorbiaceae. Its native range spans Europe, western Asia, and northern Africa. It is native to Britain and Ireland too. In the wild, it grows along woodland edges. Its leafy form gives gardens interest beyond the flowering season.

The plant makes a bushy mound with many upright branches. Garden plants reach about 1–2 feet (0.3–0.61 metres) tall. Their spread is about 1.5 feet (0.46 metres). RHS gives an upper spread of 1.6 feet (0.5 metres). Its stems have a reddish-green tint. The dull green leaves are spoon-shaped or broadest near their tips. Their undersides may show purple or red tones. Lower leaves grow one by one along the stems. Upper leaves form rings around them. The foliage stays green through summer, then darkens in cold weather. Autumn leaves may take on purple and burgundy shades.

Yellow flower clusters top the stems from April to June. These spring and early summer blooms provide the main flower display. The foliage supplies colour through the rest of the year. Wood spurge suits beds, borders, and rock gardens. RHS also lists it for informal gardens and ground cover. Underground rhizomes help it spread beyond its first planting spot. This spread can become a nuisance without control.

Sources differ on the best light and soil moisture. Missouri Botanical Garden favours sun and dry to moderately moist soil. RHS recommends partial shade with moist soil that drains well. Both accounts stress drainage rather than wet ground. Afternoon shade can help where summers are hot. Too much shade can make the mound lose its shape. Wet winter soil can kill plants. Poor, sandy, or rocky soils can suit it. RHS also lists clay and loam, across all pH ranges. Hot, humid summers may cause stress. It tolerates drought, deer, rabbits, and urban conditions. Its hardiness ratings are USDA zones 6–8 and RHS H6.

Care needs are low, but the sap requires care. Broken stems release white sap that can cause skin rashes. RHS warns of harm to eyes, people, and pets. The plant is harmful to eat; it is not food. Wear gloves and other protection when handling it. Missouri Botanical Garden reports no major pest or disease problems. RHS lists aphids and grey mould as possible troubles. Remove spent stems after bloom to promote fresh basal growth. Divide plants in spring, or take basal cuttings in early summer. Seeds offer another way to raise new plants.