snow on the mountain
Euphorbia marginata
Overview
Snow on the mountain (Euphorbia marginata) is a hardy, low-maintenance perennial shrub that is both striking and easy to grow. It produces brilliant white flowers composed of creamy bracts highlighted with a light green margin that bloom in the summertime. The evergreen foliage features wavy-margined leaflets that change colour in the winter months. With its upright structure and mounding habit, this deer-resistant plant is drought tolerant, making it perfect for sunny locations where other plants may struggle. Low maintenance and adaptable to many conditions, snow on the mountain provides year-round interest and beauty with very little effort.
Care Guide
Watering
Watering Snow on the Mountain (Euphorbia marginata): Snow on the Mountain should be watered deeply once a week. However, during extremely hot or dry periods, it may be necessary to increase watering to once every 3 or 4 days. The soil should be allowed to dry slightly between waterings and it is best to water in the morning so that any excess will have time to evaporate in the sun. If the leaves are wilted, water more frequently. Standing water can be fatal, so it is important to maintain well-draining soils. During dormancy in the winter months, water only enough to a maintain a slight level of moisture.
Light
Snow on the mountain (Euphorbia marginata) thrives in well-draining soil in locations that receive full sunlight. The plant does best in temperatures between 65°F and 80°F, with an optimal growing temperature of around 70°F. Sunlight is vital for this species of plant to grow successfully. Exposure to sunlight helps the plant grow sturdier, healthier and more vibrant, while also promoting flowering and increasing the showy white and chartreuse coloring of the foliage. Snow on the mountain should receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day, which is generally best provided from morning to early afternoon. In shadier environments, the plant may suffer from reduced flowering and smaller leaves with less vibrant coloration.
Temperature
Hardiness zone 2-11.
Pruning
Snow on the Mountain should be pruned regularly in order to maintain its desired shape and size. During the growing season, pruning should focus more on removing any new, unwanted growth or old, damaged wood. Pruning should be done every 8-10 weeks. In late winter or early spring, more extensive pruning may be done to encourage better health or to effect the desired shape. It is important to remember to sterilize pruning tools being used on Snow on the Mountain to avoid disease transmission. In addition, pruning should be limited to no more than 1/3 of the total plant in any single season. Also, try to avoid cutting into old wood which can be damaging to the plant.
Propagation
Division, Cutting, Seed Propagation, Layering Propagation
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