Euphorbia characias 'Portuguese Velvet'
Evergreen Spurge
Description
This sculptural looking perennial looks like a succulent because of the finger-like, fleshy, gray green foliage. Gold colored flowers appear on the tips of the foliage in spring. It reaches 2'-3' tall and 3'-4' wide, tolerating full sun in coastal areas but preferring afternoon shade in warm, inland valleys. It is drought tolerant once it's established. Sap may be irritating to skin and poisonous so use gloves when pruning.
Plant Type
Perennial
Height Range
1-3'
Width Range
3-6'
Flower Color
Yellow
Flower Season
Spring
Leaf Color
Blue Green, Grey Green
Bark Color
n/a
Fruit Color
n/a
Fruit Season
n/a
Sun
Full, Half
Water
Very Low
Growth Rate
Moderate
Soil Type
Unparticular
Soil Condition
Well-drained, Dry
Soil pH
Neutral
Adverse Factors
Allergenic, Poisonous
Design Styles
Mediterranean, Ranch, Seascape
Accenting Features
Showy Flowers, Specimen, Unusual Foliage, Unusual Shape
Seasonal Interest
Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall
Location Uses
Raised Planter, Walkways, With Rocks
Special Uses
Container
Attracts Wildlife
n/a
Water Saving Tip:
Change spray sprinklers to low-flow bubbler or drip systems.
Shrubs and trees are ideal candidates for this type of irrigation because the water is applied directly to the root zones.