Myrtle Spurge Plant Care

Euphorbia myrsinites Pall.

Euphorbia myrsinites, the myrtle spurge, blue spurge, or broad-leaved glaucous-spurge, is a succulent species of flowering plant in the spurge family Euphorbiaceae.

ðŸŒŋShrubsðŸŠīHouseplantsðŸŒĩSucculents
Water

Every 14–21 days

Light

Full sun to partial shade

Temp

60–85°F

Humidity

40–60%

What Is the Myrtle Spurge?

Myrtle Spurge (Euphorbia myrsinites) belongs to the Euphorbiaceae family within the Euphorbia genus. Myrtle Spurge is also known as Creeping Spurge, Donkey Tail.

Myrtle Spurge displays a varies by species, can be upright, sprawling, or clumping growth habit, reaching up to 3 inches tall with a spread of approximately 2 inches. Myrtle Spurge produces small, often inconspicuous flowers surrounded by colorful bracts.

Leaf size: approximately 4 inches.

How Often Should You Water a Myrtle Spurge?

Euphorbia myrsinites requires watering every 14–21 days. Allow the top layer of soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot. Reduce watering frequency during winter when growth slows.

Watering Frequency

Every 14–21 days

Let soil partially dry between waterings

What Light Does the Myrtle Spurge Need?

Myrtle Spurge thrives in full sun to partial shade light conditions. The optimal light range is 200–400 lux. Avoid placing Myrtle Spurge in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.

Light Requirement

Full sun to partial shade

200–400 lux

What Temperature and Humidity Does the Myrtle Spurge Prefer?

Euphorbia myrsinites grows best at temperatures between 60°F and 85°F. Myrtle Spurge prefers humidity levels of 40–60%.

Temperature

60–85°F

Humidity

40–60%

What Soil Mix Works Best for a Myrtle Spurge?

Well-draining sandy soil mix with perlite and gravel. Good drainage is essential for Myrtle Spurge to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.

How Do You Repot a Myrtle Spurge?

Repot every 2-3 years in spring. Choose a pot one size larger than the current container, and ensure it has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.

How Do You Propagate a Myrtle Spurge?

Myrtle Spurge can be propagated through stem cuttings, offsets, seeds. Similar propagation techniques also apply to poinsettia plant care, which shares the same genus.

Fertilizing

Every 6 months

During the growing season

Is the Myrtle Spurge Toxic to Pets and Children?

Toxic to Pets & Children

Mildly toxic if ingested, can cause skin irritation

What Pests and Diseases Affect the Myrtle Spurge?

Myrtle Spurge is susceptible to mealybugs, spider mites, aphids. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.

What USDA Hardiness Zone Does the Myrtle Spurge Need?

Myrtle Spurge grows outdoors in USDA Zone 13a. In cooler regions, grow Myrtle Spurge as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.

Hardiness Zone

Zone 13a

Keep exploring plants

Myrtle Spurge is one of many species covered in the complete plant care and identification guide, which groups plants by genus, attribute, and popularity.

It belongs to the Euphorbia genus — compare its care with other Euphorbia species on PlantoScan.

Myrtle Spurge tolerates low-light rooms and shaded spots — browse the full list of low-light plants.

More Euphorbia Species

Other Euphorbia species in PlantoScan's care catalogue share similar watering, light, and soil preferences:

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