Wood Spurge
Euphorbia amygdaloides
Also listed as Characias amygdaloides, Esula amygdaloides
Climate Match for your location
See how well Wood Spurge grows in your area.
Enter your ZIP code and we'll show you how this plant fits your local climate.
Wood spurge is a semi-woody evergreen perennial with distinctive lime-yellow bracts in spring and dark green foliage that often takes on reddish tones in winter. It thrives in dry shade and is excellent for woodland gardens and difficult spots.
Why grow it
Wood spurge outperforms many shade perennials in establishing under dry trees and in compacted soils where other woodland plants struggle. Unlike some Euphorbia species, it remains relatively compact and does not spread aggressively, making it a contained option for difficult microclimates. Its persistent winter foliage and early spring color provide visual interest across seasons without requiring supplemental water once established.
Watch out for
Self-seeding can occur in favorable conditions, so deadheading spent flower heads will prevent unwanted seedlings in nearby beds. The plant may take one to two seasons to establish a strong root system in very dry locations before showing vigorous growth.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Euphorbiaceae
Native Range
Western Europe
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Season of Interest
Herb
Soft non-woody plants of the field layer.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
Wood spurge is a semi-woody evergreen perennial with distinctive lime-yellow bracts in spring and dark green foliage that often takes on reddish tones in winter. It thrives in dry shade and is excellent for woodland gardens and difficult spots.
Climate Match for your location
See how well Wood Spurge grows in your area.
Enter your ZIP code and we'll show you how this plant fits your local climate.
Why grow it
Wood spurge outperforms many shade perennials in establishing under dry trees and in compacted soils where other woodland plants struggle. Unlike some Euphorbia species, it remains relatively compact and does not spread aggressively, making it a contained option for difficult microclimates. Its persistent winter foliage and early spring color provide visual interest across seasons without requiring supplemental water once established.
Watch out for
Self-seeding can occur in favorable conditions, so deadheading spent flower heads will prevent unwanted seedlings in nearby beds. The plant may take one to two seasons to establish a strong root system in very dry locations before showing vigorous growth.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Euphorbiaceae
Native Range
Western Europe
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Season of Interest
Herb
Soft non-woody plants of the field layer.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
Similar herbs you might consider:
Enter your ZIP code to see top native species and strong climate fits for you.