Euphorbia mellifera

Honey spurge, Euphorbia mellifera, is a handsome, semi-evergreen shrub native to Madeira and the Canary Islands. It has become a popular garden plant for its honey-scented summer flowers, which are popular with bees, attractive domed growth habit and waxy leaves.

Euphorbia mellifera can be grown in full sun or partial shade, and will vary in habit depending on the sunlight it receives. In full sun it will develop a denser, more compact shape and in shadier spots a looser and taller habit. It looks brilliant in growing in exotic borders or gravel gardens.

For best results, grow Euphorbia mellifera in full sun or partial shade in well-drained soil. Poorly drained soils should be avoided. It can be pruned back hard in spring if it starts to get too leggy, but remember to wear gloves when pruning, as the milky white sap can irritate the skin and eyes. Euphorbia mellifera has been awarded the Royal Horticultural Society's prestigious Award of Garden Merit (AGM).