Spurge (Euphorbia characias 'Tasmanian Tiger')
The striking Euphorbia characias 'Tasmanian Tiger' Spurge offers variegated foliage and unique pale yellow blooms, ideal for low-maintenance, drought-tolerant gardens.
Complete Plant Information
Overview
Euphorbia characias ‘Tasmanian Tiger’ is a visually dynamic herbaceous perennial celebrated for its outstanding variegated foliage, bringing a touch of brightness to the landscape through much of the year. This specific cultivar of Spurge distinguishes itself with leaves splashed in shades of cream and green, contrasting beautifully with its spring flower display of pale yellow and cream bracts. As a low-maintenance option, this plant thrives when provided with sharply drained soil and ample sunlight, making it a superb choice for xeriscaping or Mediterranean-style gardens. Gardeners who appreciate bold structure and reliable, drought-tolerant performance will find Euphorbia characias ‘Tasmanian Tiger’ an invaluable addition.
Fast Facts
- Plant Family: Euphorbiaceae
- Plant Type: Herbaceous perennial
- Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 6-8
- Size at Maturity:
- Height: 2-3 ft
- Spread: 2-3 ft
- Bloom Time: June to July
- Bloom Description: Pale yellow and cream
- Sun Exposure: Full sun to part shade
- Water Needs: Dry to medium
- Maintenance Level: Low
How to Grow
The key to successfully establishing Euphorbia characias ‘Tasmanian Tiger’ lies entirely in soil drainage. Plant this Spurge only in locations that feature dry to medium, very well-drained soil; wet winter soils are fatal to the fleshy roots. While established plants exhibit strong drought tolerance, brief supplemental watering during exceptionally dry summer periods can prevent temporary stress and maintain vigor. Planting in full sun encourages the best variegation and flower production, though it tolerates dappled light or part shade, especially in hotter climates.
Maintenance for this variety is generally low once sited correctly. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can sometimes reduce the effectiveness of the variegation. Pruning is usually minimal; remove old or damaged flowering stems promptly after blooming to encourage fresh growth from the base. Be highly cautious when cutting or handling stems.
Gardeners should note that while often evergreen in milder winter regions, Euphorbia characias ‘Tasmanian Tiger’ may face hardship or die back near the lower end of its hardiness range (Zone 6). In cooler areas, choose a sheltered spot out of harsh winter winds. This plant prefers a Mediterranean climate and may decline faster in extremely hot and humid summers, meaning its longevity can sometimes be short-lived under unfavorable conditions.
Landscape Uses
The striking variegation of Euphorbia characias ‘Tasmanian Tiger’ makes it an excellent specimen plant where its foliage can be appreciated up close. Its upright habit and compact, rounded growth make it perfect for integrating into mixed borders, providing structural interest between spring bulbs and late-season perennials. Due to its reliable drought tolerance, this Spurge pairs well aesthetically and culturally with other low-water lovers like lavender, ornamental grasses, and sedums.
This plant also shines in containers. When grown in pots, ensure the potting media drains aggressively—a mix designed for cacti or succulents works well. Containers allow for strategic placement to highlight the interesting white and green patterns of the foliage, particularly near patios or entryways. Grouping several plants together can create a bold, architectural statement in a sunny garden bed.
Standout Features
Flower Qualities
- Showy
Noteworthy Characteristics
Euphorbia characias is an upright euphorbia native to Southern Europe, typically noted for its woody-based stems topped by bottlebrush-like inflorescences of greenish-yellow flowers. The cultivar ‘Tasmanian Tiger’ was discovered in Hobart, Tasmania, around 1993 and features distinct variegated foliage along pale gray-green stems that may carry a purple tint. Its flowers are attractive, composed of petal-like bracts that are pale yellow and cream, often accented with green center blotches. Be aware that when stems are broken, they produce a white milky sap that is both poisonous and a skin irritant.
Tolerances
- Rabbit
- Deer
- Drought
- Dry Soil
- Air Pollution
Potential Problems
The primary safety concern when growing this Spurge involves its sap. Broken stems exude a white, milky latex that is toxic if ingested and can cause severe skin irritation upon contact, especially when exposed to sunlight. Always wear protective gloves and eyewear when pruning or handling Euphorbia characias ‘Tasmanian Tiger’. Fortunately, the plant faces few serious insect or disease issues when sited properly. Ensuring sharply drained soil is the best preventative measure against fungal issues, as wet feet can quickly lead to root rot and plant death.
Frequently Asked Questions
What hardiness zones is Spurge suitable for?
Euphorbia characias ‘Tasmanian Tiger’ is typically hardy in USDA Zones 6 to 8.
How large does Euphorbia characias ‘Tasmanian Tiger’ grow?
This variety usually matures to a height between 2 to 3 feet tall, matching its spread of 2 to 3 feet, displaying a compact, rounded form.
What sun exposure does Spurge need?
This plant performs best in full sun but adapts well to part shade conditions.
When does Euphorbia characias ‘Tasmanian Tiger’ bloom?
The distinctive flowering period for this plant is usually from June to July, featuring pale yellow and cream coloration on the bracts.
Conclusion
The strong structural habit combined with the eye-catching variegated foliage ensures that Euphorbia characias ‘Tasmanian Tiger’ remains a highly desired architectural element in modern and drought-tolerant landscapes. This low-maintenance Spurge offers reliable performance if drainage is prioritized above all else. Before planting, confirm your location falls within USDA Zones 6–8 and plan to wear protective gear when performing maintenance cuts.
Companion Planting
Because Euphorbia characias ‘Tasmanian Tiger’ requires excellent drainage and tolerates dry conditions, pairing it with other Mediterranean or dry-garden selections is highly recommended. Consider planting along with plants that share similar cultural needs, such as various ornamental Alliums, which offer spherical blooms that contrast nicely with the Spurge’s upright stems. Lavender (Lavandula) is an ideal partner, providing fragrance while demanding similar sun and dry soil conditions.
For textural contrast, incorporate fine-textured ornamental grasses that can soften the bold lines of the Spurge foliage. Grasses like Stipa tenuissima (Mexican Feather Grass) or dwarf varieties of switchgrass will flutter around the static structure of the variegated leaves, adding movement and depth to the border design throughout the summer.
Seasonal Care Calendar
Spring care focuses on post-bloom maintenance. After the pale yellow-cream bracts fade typically by mid-summer, you can shear back exhausted flower stems to encourage new foliage growth. Do not heavily prune the woody base of the plant.
In summer, mainly monitor moisture if you are experiencing extreme heat or drought, as even this tolerant Spurge appreciates occasional deep watering during extended dry spells to prevent shriveling. Avoid heavy fertilization during this time; a light, balanced feed only if the plant seems lackluster during its first year establishment period is sufficient.
Winter care necessitates protection from excess moisture rather than cold, particularly in Zone 6 gardens. Ensure ground mulch is not trapping standing water around the crown of the Euphorbia characias ‘Tasmanian Tiger.’ If you successfully grow this plant as an evergreen in a very mild winter climate, minimal clean-up is needed until late winter when you remove any dead or damaged stems before new growth begins.
