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:
Replace turf with groundcovers, trees, and shrubs.
If you have areas where no one uses the grass, patches that do not grow well, or a turf area too small to water without runoff, consider replacing the turf with water-efficient landscaping.