Mediterranean Spurge 'Shorty'

Euphorbia characias subsp. wulfenii 'Shorty' is a compact, dwarf version of the dramatic Mediterranean Spurge, making it more suitable for smaller gardens or the front of a herbaceous border. It features the same striking glaucous, blue-grey evergreen foliage arranged in architectural whorls along the stems. In early spring, it produces large, rounded heads of chartreuse (yellow-green) 'flowers' (actually bracts) that can last for several months. Each bract has a tiny maroon eye, adding to its visual interest. Reaching only about 60cm in height and width, 'Shorty' maintains a much neater, rounded habit than its taller relatives. It is fully hardy in the UK (H4) and extremely drought-tolerant once established. Like all Euphorbias, it contains a milky sap that can be a skin and eye irritant, so gloves should be worn when pruning. It thrives in well-drained soil and requires full sun to prevent the stems from becoming floppy. Cut back the flowered stems to the base in summer to encourage new growth.

Sun: Full sun.

Soil: Light, well-drained soil.

Hardiness: H4 — down to −10°C.

Flowering: Mar, Apr, May, Jun.