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Description
Euphorbia Alpina, also known as Alpine Spurge, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the family Euphorbiaceae. It is native to the mountainous regions of Europe and Asia, particularly in the Alps and the Himalayas. The plant can grow up to 30 cm in height and has a clumping habit with a spread of about 45 cm. It features narrow, lance-shaped leaves that are 2-4 cm long and arranged in whorls on the stems. The flowers are small, greenish-yellow, and inconspicuous, blooming from late spring to early summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Euphorbiaceae |
| Genus | Euphorbia |
Appearance
Euphorbia Alpina is a clumping perennial that forms a dense mat of foliage. The plant has narrow, lance-shaped leaves that are arranged in whorls on the stems. The leaves are dark green and have a slightly glossy texture. The stems are green and slightly hairy. The flowers of Euphorbia Alpina are small, greenish-yellow, and inconspicuous, blooming from late spring to early summer. The plant can grow up to 30 cm in height and has a spread of about 45 cm.
Care Guide
Euphorbia Alpina is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips to keep your plant healthy:
- Water: Euphorbia Alpina prefers well-drained soil and does not tolerate wet feet. Water the plant deeply when the top inch of soil is dry.
- Fertilization: The plant does not require fertilization, but you can apply a balanced fertilizer in the spring to promote growth.
- Soil: Euphorbia Alpina prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy and clay soils.
- Sunlight: Euphorbia Alpina prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA Zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Euphorbia Alpina is generally pest and disease-resistant, but it can be susceptible to the following:
- Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects can suck the sap from the leaves and stems of the plant, causing yellowing and distortion. Control with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Spider Mites: These tiny, spider-like insects can cause yellowing and stippling of the leaves. Control with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Crown Rot: This fungal disease can cause the plant to wilt and die. Control by improving drainage and avoiding overwatering.
- Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white powdery coating on the leaves. Control with fungicides or by improving air circulation.
Habitat
Euphorbia Alpina is native to the mountainous regions of Europe and Asia, particularly in the Alps and the Himalayas. The plant prefers well-drained soil and full sun, but can tolerate partial shade. It is hardy in USDA Zones 5-9.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Euphorbia Alpina poisonous?
A: Yes, Euphorbia Alpina is toxic to humans and animals. The plant contains a milky sap that can cause skin irritation and eye damage.
Q: Can Euphorbia Alpina be grown in a container?
A: Yes, Euphorbia Alpina can be grown in a container as long as it has well-drained soil and receives full sun.
Q: How often should I water Euphorbia Alpina?
A: Water Euphorbia Alpina deeply when the top inch of soil is dry. The plant prefers well-drained soil and does not tolerate wet feet.
Q: How do I propagate Euphorbia Alpina?
A: Euphorbia Alpina can be propagated by division in the spring or fall. Simply dig up a clump of the plant and separate it into smaller sections with a sharp knife.
Related Plants
- Euphorbia Cyparissias
- Euphorbia Characias
- Euphorbia Polychroma
- Euphorbia Rigida
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden: Euphorbia Alpina
- RHS: Euphorbia Alpina
- Gardening Know How: Alpine Spurge Care – How To Grow Euphorbia Alpina
- Garden Design: Euphorbia Alpina
