Euphorbia polychroma 'Bonfire' PP18585

Common Name: Cushion Spurge

One of the best landscape plants for all-season color. 'Bonfire' is one of the most colorful spurges ever invented! The top growth is a fantastic combination of deep purple, red, and orange leaves with a touch of chartreuse, while the undergrowth is green. The foliage tends to deepen to burgundy red at the height of summer. Turns rich red in the fall.

In late spring, crackling sulfur yellow bracts light up the whole plant for several weeks. But really, who needs flowers with foliage like this?!

'Bonfire' is a selection from E. polychroma.

Height:

18.0 Inches

Spread:

36.0 Inches

Hardiness Zones:

5,6,7,8,9

Flower Color:

Yellow/Gold Shades

Foliage Color:

Multicolored

Sunlight:

Full Sun (> 6 hrs. Direct Sun) Part Shade (4-6 hrs. Direct Sun)

Water Requirements:

Low Water Needs Average Water Needs

Soil Quality:

Average Soil Quality

Soil Chemistry:

Acidic Soil (pH < 7.0) Neutral Soil (pH = 7.0) Alkaline Soil (pH > 7.0)

Bloomtime:

Late Spring

Critter Resistant:

Deer Resistant Rabbit Resistant

Growth Rate:

Medium

Garden Style:

Patio Container Cottage Eclectic Modern Rock Garden

Other Features:

Border Plant Container Cut Foliage Drought Tolerant Attractive Foliage Salt Tolerant Specimen Focal Point

Origin:

Not Native to North America

In zone 5, Cushion Spurge grows well in full sun. In regions south of there, it is best sited in part shade, avoiding the hot afternoon sun. It prefers average, well-drained soil. After flowering in spring, Cushion Spurge should be cut back to about 4". This will keep the plant more compact and prevent it from splitting in the center.

Use caution and wear gloves when handling this plant; it is POISONOUS if eaten and the sap can be a skin and eye irritant.

Awards

Colorado State University "Top Performer" Perennial -- 2008

Colorado State University "Top Performer" Perennial -- 2009

Fun Facts

Perennial Euphorbias are in the same family as Poinsettias.

Characteristics