Photo: Rasbak, CC BY-SA 3.0 · source
Pruning guide · Perennial
Cushion spurge: when and how to prune
Euphorbia epithymoides
Cushion spurge is best pruned in March and June.
| Pruning months | March and June |
|---|---|
| Flowering | April–June |
| 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 |
Cushion spurge: when to prune it?
Pruning is hardly needed. In March, cut away last year’s dead stems and, if you like, the spent stems in June.
Cushion spurge: how to prune it?
- In March, remove the dead, dried stems at the base before the new shoots appear.
- To avoid seedlings or keep the dome more compact, shorten the spent stems by a third in June.
- If an old plant falls open in the middle, cut the stems back by half after flowering: it will reshoot.
- Wear gloves, then wash your hands and your secateurs.
How much to cut, and how often?
- There are 2 pruning periods a year: March and June. You don’t have to prune in every one.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- Cushion 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.
Caution: Do not cut it back in autumn: the red autumn colour is one of its great assets. Cushion spurge is poisonous: wear gloves and keep clippings away from children, pets and livestock.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Plant profile: Cushion spurge · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.