Albanian Spurge, scientifically known as Euphorbia characias ssp. wulfenii, is a striking evergreen sub-shrub, often called Mediterranean Spurge, reflecting its native origins. Its architectural form, vibrant chartreuse blooms, and distinct texture provide significant ornamental interest year-round, making it a favored choice for beds, borders, and rock gardens.
Identifying Albanian Spurge
Albanian Spurge is characterized by its robust, upright, multi-stemmed growth habit. Its stems are typically brownish-green, becoming woody at the base, and are densely covered with narrow, linear, blue-green leaves, up to 5 inches long, which remain evergreen in warmer climates.
Its most distinguishing feature is its showy inflorescence, appearing in late winter and early spring. These are large, bottlebrush-like clusters of greenish-yellow bracts (modified leaves) that surround inconspicuous true flowers. The lime-yellow bracts often have prominent purple nectar glands, creating a vibrant display up to 6-9 inches across.
Cultivating Albanian Spurge
Albanian Spurge thrives in full sun, mimicking its native Mediterranean habitat. While it tolerates some partial shade, especially in regions with intense afternoon sun, too much shade can cause leggy growth. It adapts to various well-drained soil types, including chalk, loam, and sand, but is intolerant of heavy clay and excessive moisture, which can cause root rot.
Once established, Euphorbia characias ssp. wulfenii exhibits excellent drought tolerance, though it benefits from supplemental watering during prolonged summer dry periods. It is hardy in USDA Plant Hardiness Zones 6 to 8 (some sources extend to 10b), and can withstand temperatures down to approximately 10°F (-12°C) if the soil drains properly. In cooler Zone 6 areas, a protected site may be beneficial for winter survival.
Each stem typically grows for one year, produces flowers in its second year, and then dies back after blooming. To maintain plant vigor, cut spent flowering stems back to the base in late summer or early autumn. This encourages new stems for the next season’s blooms.
Safety Precautions
Like other Euphorbia plants, Albanian Spurge produces a milky white sap (latex) when stems or leaves are broken. This sap is highly toxic and can cause significant irritation. Skin contact may result in redness, swelling, and blistering, while eye contact can lead to severe burning, irritation, blurred vision, or temporary blindness.
When handling, wear protective gear like gloves and goggles. If skin contact occurs, immediately wash the area thoroughly with soap and water; rinsing with water alone is insufficient. For eye exposure, rinse with water for 15-20 minutes. Seek medical attention promptly for severe pain, swelling, or vision changes. Ingestion is also dangerous, potentially causing mouth and throat irritation, drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing.
Managing Its Spread
Albanian Spurge tends to self-seed readily, leading to prolific spread. Seeds can explode from the plant, dispersing widely. While established plants are relatively short-lived (5-7 years), new seedlings continuously emerge.
To manage spread, deadhead spent flower stems before seeds mature and disperse. This significantly reduces new seedlings. If new plants are desired, allow some seed heads to mature. Unwanted seedlings are easy to identify and remove when young. Regular monitoring helps contain the plant within its designated space.