The Honey Spurge (Euphorbia mellifera) is a striking evergreen shrub popular in ornamental gardens due to its unique architectural form and aromatic flowers. This plant offers distinctive visual appeal throughout the year with its dense foliage and sturdy, multi-branched structure. Its common name hints at one of its most appealing features: the sweet, fragrant nectar produced by its blooms.
Identification and Native Habitat
The Honey Spurge is characterized by its woody stems and attractive, lance-shaped leaves, which are typically a vibrant shade of bright green or blue-green. The narrow foliage can grow up to eight inches long and often features a pale midrib. In late spring, the plant produces clusters of small, greenish-yellow to brownish flowers that bloom at the terminal ends of the stems.
Its native range is specific to the islands of Macaronesia in the Atlantic Ocean, particularly Madeira and the Canary Islands. The Honey Spurge thrives in mild, Mediterranean climates and is generally hardy in United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Zones 9 through 11. It can tolerate temperatures down to about -5°C with protection in well-drained soil.
Distinctive Horticultural Traits
The plant’s Latin specific epithet, mellifera, translates to “honey-bearing,” referencing the rich, sweet scent of its nectar that perfumes the air and attracts various pollinators. The flowers are followed by warty fruit capsules that add seasonal interest. Beyond its fragrance, the Honey Spurge is valued for its resilience and structural qualities, often used as an architectural plant in landscaping.
Once established, the shrub exhibits a high degree of drought tolerance, making it suitable for xeriscape or water-wise gardens. It prefers a well-drained soil composition, such as sandy or loamy types. The plant performs best when planted in full sun, which helps it maintain a dense and compact shape.
Safety Precautions Regarding Sap
Like all species in the Euphorbia family, the Honey Spurge contains a white, milky substance known as latex or sap, which oozes out when the plant is cut or damaged. This sap contains compounds that are a significant irritant and should be handled with caution. Contact with the skin can result in redness, swelling, and blistering, a reaction that can be exacerbated by sun exposure (phototoxicity).
The most severe danger is to the eyes, as contact can cause painful inflammation, blurred vision, and potential for serious damage. When pruning or handling the Honey Spurge, wear protective gear, including gloves and eye protection. If skin contact occurs, the area should be washed immediately and thoroughly with soap and water to remove the sap.