Purple Spurge (Euphorbia atropurpurea)

Purple Spurge

Euphorbia atropurpurea

Deep purple foliage glows like twilight embers. Evergreen subshrub; common name: Purple Spurge.

Full sun
1–2/week
Moderate
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; full sun intensifies foliage color, while partial shade prevents leaf scorch in hot inland climates
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Watering Water thoroughly only when the top 2 cm of soil is completely dry; avoid standing water to prevent root rot
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Temperature Thrives in 15–25°C; protect from frost below 10°C to prevent foliage damage
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Succulent obovate leaves with deep purple to burgundy color, arranged in dense rosettes
  • Flower: Small yellow-green cyathia clustered at stem tips; lack true petals
  • Stem: Thick fleshy stems containing milky latex sap when broken
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil slightly moist but not soggy; reduce frequency during heavy rainfall

Fertilization

Diluted balanced liquid feed once every 4 weeks. Use low-nitrogen feed to preserve deep purple foliage color

Eggshell powder topdress:Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle 1 tsp per pot every 3 months and mix lightly into the top 1 cm of soil
Pruning
  • Remove spent flower clusters after blooming to encourage bushier new growth
  • Trim leggy stems in early spring to maintain a compact mound form
  • Cut back damaged or discolored foliage to prevent disease spread
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Euphorbia genus sap causes oral irritation, vomiting, and diarrhea in cats

Humans: Milky latex sap causes mild dermal irritation on contact and oral burning if ingested

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental groundcover for coastal rock gardens; container foliage for patios