Euphorbia characias Blue Wonder - Spurge

The Euphorbia characias Blue Wonder, lives up to its name: its grey-blue foliage looks wonderful in flower beds all year round. Its persistent lanceolate leaves are borne on long upright stems, forming a plant with exotic appeal. The flowering period from April to June enhances this impression with flowers of a lime-green hue.
 

Euphorbias have multiple characteristics. Their common features for the characias species: foliage and flowering that are always very decorative, a preference for a sunny exposure and a well-drained or even dry, rocky and even poor soil. Their stems start from the base and form a rather tall bushy clump, 80 cm (32in) or more for Black Pearl. They are covered with rather long lanceolate leaves, minimum 10 cm (4in)  topped with inflorescences. These are grouped in clusters of at least 15 cm (6in) in height and covered with many small cyathia (this name is mainly attributed to Euphorbias). Do not hesitate to observe them closely and follow their blooming with changing colours, they are very delicate with their bracts as a collar. Euphorbias are quite essential in flower beds: a voluminous habit that gives volume, long-lasting foliage, and brightly coloured flowers.

The colour of its foliage will inspire you to create a silvery or bluish flower bed. Euphorbia characias Blue Wonder can be paired with Artemisias, Helichrysums, and Stachys. However, it is best planted in groups to enhance the effect of its bright and unique flowering.

The only downside is that these plants have a significant characteristic. Their sap is made up of an irritating and toxic latex. Always remember to handle them with gloves, keep an eye on children playing nearby, and inform them about the plants' properties.