Culture
Best grown in dry to medium, well-drained soils in full sun. Appreciates some afternoon shade in hot summer climates. However, clumps tend to open up and lose their attractive shape in too much shade. Must have sharply-drained soils. Wet soils, particularly in winter, can be fatal. Plants are tolerant of some poor soils, including rocky-sandy ones. Plants generally prefer a Mediterranean-type climate and may show some stress in hot and humid summers.
'Nothowlee' BLACKBIRD is considered hardy in Zones 6-9, but will remain evergreen in Zones 7 and higher.
Noteworthy Characteristics
Euphorbia is a genus of about 2,000 species of annuals, herbaceous perennials, trees, shrubs and succulents found in temperate, subtropical and tropical areas. All plant parts are toxic and can cause severe discomfort if eaten. The milky sap can cause skin irritation.
Genus name probably honors Euphorbus, physician to the King of Mauretania.
'Nothowlee' BLACKBIRD is a hybrid spurge cultivar that features very dark purple-black foliage contrasted by lime green flowering clusters. The flowers themselves are small and insignificant, but they are surrounded by showy bracts. Forms compact, upright clumps reach up to 2' tall with an equal spread. 'Nothowlee' BLACKBIRD was discovered growing among a nursery crop of Euphorbia 'Charam' REDWING. Plant patent number PP17178 applies to this cultivar.
Problems
No serious insect or disease problems. Use gloves when working with this plant. Some gardeners experience skin rashes from contact with the toxic plant sap of euphorbias. Deer tend to avoid this plant.
Uses
Beds, borders and rock gardens.