Snow-on-the-Mountain

When we went to Stonecrop in August, a plant that caught our eye was Snow-on-the-Mountain or Euphorbia marginata.  We came across it in the Systemic Order Beds and its distinct foliage set it apart.  None of us were familiar with this beauty, so here is some information about this member of the spurge family.

 Euphorbia marginata is a native plant and is found in the wild in much of the United States.  It grows from seeds and is considered a weedy, invasive plant in many areas.  It was one of the botanical specimens collected by the Lewis and Clark expedition in 1806 along the Yellowstone River in what is now Montana.  It is often called Snow-on-the Mountain due to its white leaves. 

 Euphorbia marginata is an annual grown from seeds for its unique foliage.  It grows best in light shade in a ph neutral soil.  It has medium water requirements and likes a somewhat moist area.  The plant has showy leaves that are light green, variegated or all white.  It grows to be 1 – 3 feet tall.  Tiny flowers with whitish, petal-like bracts appear in clusters atop the leaves.  But the flowers are unimpressive, and it is the foliage of Euphorbia marginata that makes it special. 

 

 

Of particular note for Hudson Valley gardeners is that Euphorbia marginata is highly deer resistant.  This is because the plant is quite toxic.  Its milky sap may cause dermatitis that can be severe.  This plant is not for picking.  Plant the seeds where you want it to grow and avoid touching it without gloves. 

Consider adding this interesting plant to your garden, but keep its toxicity in mind.  Those beautiful leaves that we found so intriguing definitely have a negative side to them.  

 

Information from .