Honey Spurge

A spectacular, large, evergreen perennial that acts much like a shrub. It forms a handsome, rounded mound of narrow, bright green leaves with a distinct pale central vein. In late spring and early summer, it produces clusters of unusual, honey-scented, bronze-terracotta flowers that are a magnet for bees. The fragrance is most powerful on warm, still days. While it is generally hardy in most of the UK, it may need a sheltered spot in colder regions or during particularly harsh winters. It thrives in well-drained soil and develops its best shape in full sun. It is a fantastic structural plant that provides year-round interest and a touch of the exotic. Note that, like all Euphorbias, the milky sap is toxic and can be a severe skin and eye irritant, so care should be taken when pruning. It is a low-maintenance but high-impact plant for a sunny border or gravel garden.

Sun: Full sun.

Soil: Well-drained soil.

Hardiness: H4 — down to −10°C.

Flowering: Apr, May.