Robb’s Almond Spurge
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Flower description / bloom time
The flowers bloom from April to the beginning of June. Clusters of lime green flowers with a disk-like bract [looks like a green collar] are borne on stems 12 to 18 inches tall.
Foliage interest—color/texture
Resembling Japanese Pachysandra, the whorls of glossy dark green leaves, to 2-inches long, were mostly evergreen except for the first year after planting.
Habit and growth rate observations
The foliage is only 8 inches high but slowly spreads by rhizomes to 2 feet, which makes it such a useful groundcover. It spreads quickly in moist, loose, organic soil.
Site preference—soil and light
Robb’s spurge prefers rich, moist, humus-rich soil in partial shade. It also did well in drier sites and in varying degrees of sun or shade.
Successes and possible drawbacks—how to overcome them
In USDA Zone 5, Robb’s spurge is best grown in a protected site where the winter foliage remains evergreen and can be fully appreciated.
Notes from growers/retailers
Propagation can be done by division or cuttings. It is best to plant liners in late summer.
Great combinations
Hosta fluctuans ‘Variegata’, Astilbe x arendsii ‘Fanal’, Pulmonaria ‘Majeste’
Parting SHOT”—the overall evaluation results were Fair **
While there is some concern in regards to this euphorbia’s hardiness, the unusual texture and flower color make it an interesting addition to a light shade garden. But buyers beware; our evaluation has shown that Robb’s spurge can go either direction, becoming aggressive and taking over, or not coming back the following year. And it does not flower every year!
Evaluated 2006-2009
