Euphorbia characias subsp. wulfenii

Euphorbia characias subsp. wulfenii
Architectural evergreen bringing bold structure and luminous spring colour

Striking lime-green flower heads, held in large domed clusters, glow in early to mid spring and seem to light up the garden. The blue-green, lance-shaped foliage forms handsome evergreen mounds, giving year-round structure. A brilliant early nectar source, it’s a magnet for pollinators when not much else is in flower.

This is a tough, drought-tolerant perennial that thrives in full sun and sharply drained soils. It forms upright clumps of woody stems, each flowering once before being cut back, with fresh new shoots coming through from the base. Perfect for gravel gardens, coastal planting, or adding bold contrast to softer perennials.

Specifications:

• Height: 1–1.5m

• Spread: 1–1.2m

• Flowering: March to May

• Position: Full sun

• Soil: Free-draining, poor to moderately fertile soils

• Maintenance: Cut back flowered stems to the base after blooming, wear gloves as sap is an irritant

🌿 Note for Isle of Wight planting:
Absolutely thrives in Isle of Wight conditions, coping brilliantly with coastal winds, dry soils, and exposed spots. Ideal for adding reliable structure without needing irrigation once established.

🌿 Ideal Companion Plants from The Green Standard Range:

• Stipa tenuissima – fine, flowing grass that softens the bold structure

• Salvia ‘Caradonna’ – deep purple spikes for strong colour contrast

• Nepeta ‘Six Hills Giant’ – relaxed blue haze to complement the lime flowers

• Achillea ‘Lemon’ – echoes the yellow tones while adding summer interest

• Verbena bonariensis – airy height that rises through the structure

🌟 The Green Standard Tip:
Plant in groups of three for real impact, the repeating lime domes create a rhythm that carries the eye through the garden beautifully.