How to Grow Euphorbia Characius Silver Swan

Uses

• In its natural environment, Euphorbia characius grows wild along roadsides, in open areas and on rocky hillsides. In the home garden, the plant thrives in poor conditions such as rocky or gravelly soil, as well as rock gardens and containers. In mixed flower beds and borders, "Silver Swan" provides color and texture in late winter and early spring. The color lasts, fading only slightly, until the seeds ripen and the stalks turn yellow.

Planting

• Although "Silver Swan" tolerates light shade, the plant is healthier and more robust in full sunlight. "Silver Swan" prefers well-drained, poor to average, slightly acidic soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Planting bedding plants from a garden center or nursery provides instant color. However, you can also plant seeds directly in the garden after all danger of frost has passed in spring and daytime temperatures are consistently at least 65 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Chill the seeds in the refrigerator for seven days, and then soak them in warm water for two hours immediately before planting. Plant the seeds and cover them with soil equal to the diameter of the seeds. Keep the soil slightly moist until the seeds germinate, usually in seven to 10 days.

Care

• "Silver Swan" is a drought-tolerant plant that requires little water once established. However, the plant benefits from regular watering during extended periods of hot, dry weather. Water the plant deeply to a depth of about 6 inches to be sure water wets the roots. Don't water again until the soil feels fairly dry, because euphorbia is susceptible to rot in soggy, humid conditions. Feed "Silver Swan lightly every other week, using a 15-15-15 fertilizer mixed at a rate of 1/2 teaspoon in 1 gallon of water. Don't overfeed the plant, as too much fertilizer results in a weak, floppy plant prone to rot and other diseases. Cut the stalks off at the base when they turn yellow in late spring.

Considerations

• Plant "Silver Swan" with care, as the plant is toxic and all parts are harmful to humans and pets if ingested. In addition, the sap may causes skin irritation and is painful if it comes in contact with the eyes. Wear gloves and long sleeves when working with the plant. "Silver Swan" is somewhat invasive, although the plants are easily pulled if they become too numerous. Cut blooms as soon as they fade if you don't want the plant to go to seed.