Fire-on-the-mountain
Euphorbia heterophylla · Euphorbiaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant fire-on-the-mountain: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Scientific name
- Euphorbia heterophylla
- Family
- Euphorbiaceae
- Type
- Annual or biennial herbaceous plant
- Adult size
- 60 to 90 cm in height
- Foliage
- Deciduous, leaves with highly variable shapes
- Flowering
- Late summer to autumn
- Origin
- Mexico and Central America
- Hardiness
- Frost-tender, annual in temperate climates
Care
Light and exposure
Place this plant in full sun to very bright conditions to obtain the best bract coloration (false flowers). It tolerates partial shade but will be less compact and less colorful. Choose a sheltered location away from strong winds that can damage its fragile stems.
Watering
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. During active growth, increase watering frequency. Let the soil dry slightly between waterings. Reduce watering as autumn approaches.
Soil and substrate
Use well-draining, fertile soil that is slightly acidic. A quality potting mix enriched with compost works perfectly. Avoid heavy or chalky soils that slow growth.
Fertilization
Apply a balanced fertilizer every 15 to 20 days during the growing season. A slight increase in potassium promotes bract coloration. Reduce fertilizing in autumn.
Pruning and training
Pinch the main stems when young to encourage branching and achieve a more compact, bushy form. Remove spent flowers and diseased stems to stimulate flowering.
Diseases and pests
Watch for spider mites in hot, dry conditions and aphids in spring. Good watering practices and proper air circulation reduce powdery mildew risk. Isolate affected plants.
Did you know?
Euphorbia heterophylla is remarkable for its intensely colored bracts (modified leaves) in red, pink, or white that resemble flowers but are actually leaves. Its popular nickname reflects the variable color of these bracts. This species has been widely selected for ornamental purposes, notably under the commercial name of a traditional Christmas plant.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- Wood spurgeEuphorbia amygdaloides
- Caper spurgeEuphorbia lathyris
- Albanian spurgeEuphorbia characias
- Spiny spurgeEuphorbia spinosa
- Garden crotonCodiaeum variegatum
- Griffith's spurgeEuphorbia griffithii
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.