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Pruning guide · Perennial
Cypress spurge: when and how to prune
Euphorbia cyparissias
Cypress spurge is best pruned in March and June–July.
| Pruning months | March and June–July |
|---|---|
| Flowering | April–June |
| Good for bees, butterflies and birds | Yes, for bees |
| Native to Belgium | Yes |
| Poisonous to people and pets | Yes, take care with children and pets |
Cypress spurge: when to prune it?
After flowering, in June–July, shear off the spent heads. In March, cut away last year’s dead stems.
Cypress spurge: how to prune it?
- Shear the spent flower heads with shears to just above the foliage.
- That way it self-seeds less and the mat stays dense and low.
- In March, cut the dead stems down short before the new shoots appear.
- Wear gloves and eye protection, then wash your hands and your tools.
How much to cut, and how often?
- There are 2 pruning periods a year: March and June–July. You don’t have to prune in every one.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- Cypress spurge flowers in April–June, when it attracts bees.
- If pruning falls during flowering, wait until it is over or leave part of the plant to flower, so bees and butterflies still benefit.
- As a native plant, it feeds more insects than a non-native species.
Caution: Do not leave prunings lying where children or animals can reach them, and never throw them into a pasture or near animal feed. Cypress spurge is poisonous: wear gloves and keep clippings away from children, pets and livestock.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Plant profile: Cypress spurge · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.