Euphorbia amygdaloides ssp robbiae

Euphorbia amygdaloides ssp robbiae, Woodspurge, is an evergreen perennial native to Turkey. In early spring its growth is tall and rapid, producing masses of acid green flowers which are extremely attractive, bringing light and interest to any dark shady corner. The tall rosettes of foliage are a contrasting dark green with softly downy margins on the glossy leathery leaves. It spreads vigourously by its rhizomes forming a handsome bushy clump.

This subspecies - often incorrectly called a cultivar or variety - was first discovered by Mary Ann Robb in 1891 from an unknown locality near Istanbul and subsequently brought back to England where it has been a popular perennial ever since. Although widespread in cultivation, it had not been seen in the wild since its original 1891 collection until 2011 when Levent Can organised a field trip to Çatalca and rediscovered it between Karacaköy and Karamandere, growing beneath oak and beech.

As with all Euphorbias, care should be taken to avoid skin-contact with the white milky sap.

Euphorbia amygdaloides ssp robbiae is such an easy and rewarding plant to grow. Its ease of cultivation together with its attractive foliage and stunning spring flowers make it a indispensable plant in the garden.