Euphorbia cotinifolia, commonly known as the Himalayan spurge, is a unique evergreen shrub native to the Himalayan region. It features glossy, lance-shaped leaves arranged in whorls along its stems, creating a striking architectural form. In late spring to early summer, it produces clusters of small, chartreuse flowers that add a pop of color to the garden landscape. Euphorbia cotinifolia thrives in full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil, making it a versatile plant for borders, rock gardens, or as a focal point in mixed perennial beds. With its low-maintenance nature and tolerance to drought and poor soil conditions, it adds year-round interest to garden spaces.
Euphorbia cotinifolia is recognized for its vibrant and unique visual appeal. The plant features glossy, lance-shaped leaves that are a deep reddish-purple, creating a striking architectural form. These leaves, which resemble those of a maple tree, provide a bold color contrast in any setting. In late spring to early summer, it blooms with clusters of small, chartreuse flowers, enhancing its decorative impact. The combination of its striking foliage and colorful flowers makes this shrub a standout in any garden landscape.
Glossy Reddish-Purple Leaves
Chartreuse Spring Flowers
Decorative Year-Round Interest
Thrives in Varied Light
Euphorbia cotinifolia thrives in a range of light conditions, from full sun to partial shade, and prefers well-draining soil. It is well-suited for planting in borders, rock gardens, or as a striking focal point in mixed perennial beds. Due to its dense growth habit and potential to reach moderate heights of up to 10 feet, it is also effective as a privacy hedge or screen. The shrub’s drought resistance and low maintenance requirements make it ideal for xeriscaping projects, appealing to gardeners who prioritize water conservation.
Full Sun to Partial Shade
Vertical Garden Impact
Effective Privacy Hedge
Crafting with Colorful Leaves
Euphorbia cotinifolia offers creative uses beyond its role in garden aesthetics. Its distinctively colored leaves can be utilized in floral arrangements and wreath making, providing a rich contrast to more traditional green foliage and adding depth to both fresh and dried compositions. However, when crafting with this plant, caution is necessary due to its toxic sap, which can cause skin irritation. By wearing gloves and properly treating the stems, the plant’s vibrant leaves can be safely incorporated into various decorative items, allowing its beauty to enhance handmade crafts and home decor.
The plant thrives in full sun to partial shade, with more intense leaf color typically developing in full sun. Adequate sunlight is essential for the best growth and coloration of the foliage.
Requires minimal watering once established, thriving on occasional deep waterings during dry periods. It is important to allow the soil to dry out between waterings to prevent root rot.
This plant prefers well-drained soil and is tolerant of a range of soil types, from sandy to loamy. Adequate drainage is crucial to avoid waterlogging and ensure the health of the plant.
Euphorbia cotinifolia is low maintenance, requiring only occasional pruning to maintain its shape and promote denser foliage. It is best to prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
Produces small, inconspicuous flowers primarily in the spring and summer months. The flowers are not the main attraction, as the vibrant foliage remains the standout feature throughout the year.
