Photo: Stefan.lefnaer, CC BY-SA 4.0 · source
Pruning guide · Perennial
Myrtle spurge: when and how to prune
Euphorbia myrsinites
Myrtle spurge is best pruned in June.
| Pruning months | June |
|---|---|
| Flowering | March–May |
| Good for bees, butterflies and birds | Yes, for bees |
| Native to Belgium | No, planted |
| Poisonous to people and pets | Yes, take care with children and pets |
Myrtle spurge: when to prune it?
After flowering, in June, cut the stems that have flowered off at the base. This year’s young stems will flower next spring.
What else to prune in those months? June
Myrtle spurge: how to prune it?
- Cut away only the spent stems, as low as possible, and leave the young, non-flowering stems.
- Wear gloves and long sleeves, and keep your hands away from your face.
- Do it before the seed capsules burst: it will self-seed far less.
- Remove dead or brown stems as soon as you see them.
How much to cut, and how often?
- One pruning period a year: June.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- Myrtle spurge flowers in March–May, when it attracts bees.
Caution: The sap is strongly irritant to the skin and eyes. Wear gloves and preferably safety glasses, and rinse at once with plenty of water if you get any on you. Myrtle spurge is poisonous: wear gloves and keep clippings away from children, pets and livestock.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Plant profile: Myrtle spurge · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.