Sea spurge
Euphorbia paralias · Euphorbiaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant sea spurge: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Flowering
- April to July
- Adult size
- 30 to 60 cm in height
- Growth
- Fast
- Hardiness
- Tender, USDA zones 9-11
- Origin
- Mediterranean and Atlantic coasts
- Soil type
- Well-drained, poor to moderate
Care
Exposure
Place your maritime euphorbia in full sun, in a very bright location. This coastal plant needs 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily to develop well and flower abundantly.
Soil and drainage
Opt for well-drained, poor to moderately fertile soil, mimicking its natural coastal conditions. Adding sand or gravel improves permeability and resilience in difficult conditions. Avoid heavy, compacted soils that retain moisture.
Watering
Water moderately during the growing season (spring-summer), allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. In winter, reduce watering drastically. This plant is adapted to drought and tolerates dry periods well.
Fertilizing
A balanced fertilizer application in spring is generally sufficient. Avoid overfeeding, which would encourage excessive growth at the expense of flowering. Maritime euphorbia prefers poor soils.
Pruning and cleanup
Regularly remove spent flowers to extend the flowering period. In late winter, cut back the stems lightly to maintain a compact form and encourage denser branching.
Pests and diseases
This species is generally resilient against diseases. The main risk is root rot due to excess moisture in winter. Ensure impeccable drainage and reduce watering in the cold season. Occasionally watch for scale insects indoors.
Did you know?
Maritime euphorbia is a relic of windswept rocky coasts, where it colonizes crevices inaccessible to other plants. Its distinctive chartreuse flowers and refined forms have made it a precious muse for gardeners of minimalist and Mediterranean style since the 20th century.
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.