Euphorbia amygdaloides ‘Purpurea’

Description

Euphorbia amygdaloides ‘Purpurea’ is a striking evergreen perennial prized for its dark reddish-purple foliage and vivid acid-yellow spring bracts. Compact, architectural, and reliable, Euphorbia amygdaloides ‘Purpurea’ brings year-round interest to borders, woodland edges, and mixed planting schemes.

PLANTING AND AFTERCARE GUIDE

Best Planting Time

• Spring: The ideal season to plant Euphorbia amygdaloides ‘Purpurea’, giving it time to establish strong roots before its flowering period
• Autumn: Also suitable for planting, allowing time to settle before the growing season begins

Site Selection

• Sunlight: Euphorbia thrives in full sun to partial shade. A bright position enhances the rich leaf colour and encourages vibrant bracts.
• Soil: Choose fertile, free-draining soil. Euphorbia dislikes sitting in water, so ensure the planting area drains well. Adding compost improves structure and fertility.

Planting Instructions

1. Prepare the Hole: Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball. This gives Euphorbia ample room to spread its roots.
2. Soil Preparation: Mix organic matter into the excavated soil to enhance drainage and nutrition.
3. Planting: Set Euphorbia amygdaloides ‘Purpurea’ into the hole with the top of the root ball level with the soil surface. Backfill gently and firm.
4. Watering After Planting: Water well to settle the soil. Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.

Watering Requirements

• Growing Season: Once established, Euphorbia is drought-tolerant. Water only during extended dry spells.
• Dormant Season: Reduce watering significantly. Only water if the soil becomes excessively dry.

Feeding

• Spring: Apply a balanced fertiliser to boost healthy new growth and support the rich foliage of your Euphorbia.
• Mid-Summer: A light feed encourages continued vigour and helps maintain its deep foliage colour.

Pruning

• Deadheading: Remove spent bracts after flowering to keep Euphorbia amygdaloides ‘Purpurea’ looking tidy.
• Seasonal Pruning: Cut back any damaged or leggy stems in late summer or early autumn to maintain a compact, bushy shape.

Always wear gloves when pruning Euphorbia species—the sap can irritate skin and eyes.

Mulching

• Spring: Mulch around the base of Euphorbia amygdaloides ‘Purpurea’ to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
• Winter: A fresh mulch layer helps insulate the roots and maintain soil structure.

Supporting the Plant

• Staking: Generally unnecessary, as Euphorbia forms a sturdy upright clump. Only stake if growing in an exposed position.

Final Tips

Euphorbia amygdaloides ‘Purpurea’ is low-maintenance, architectural, and dependable. By providing full sun or partial shade, free-draining fertile soil, and light annual pruning, you’ll enjoy vibrant foliage and striking bracts from early spring. Incorporate Euphorbia into borders, woodland gardens, or mixed perennial beds for year-round colour, structure, and effortless beauty.

 

RHS Details

See more Euphorbia from Proctors