Euphorbia hypericifolia ‘Breathless® White’

Euphorbia hypericifolia ‘Breathless® White’: The Elegant and Resilient Filler Plant

Background and Family 

Euphorbia hypericifolia ‘Breathless® White’, also known as Breathless™ Euphorbia, Graceful Spurge, or Baby’s Breath Euphorbia, is a standout in the Spurge family or Euphorbiaceae. The genus Euphorbia is named in honor of Euphorbus, a Greek physician. This particular variety, ‘Breathless® White’, is known for its delicate, airy appearance and is often used as an elegant filler in gardens and containers.

Description 

Breathless® White is a hybrid annual or tender perennial, thriving in USDA hardiness zones 10-12. It typically grows to 10-15 inches and spreads up to 24 inches, forming a compact, mounding habit. The plant features deep green stems tinged with red, creating a striking backdrop for its tiny, white bracts with a hint of blush pink. These bracts surround the insignificant flowers and bloom continuously from spring through fall, providing a long season of visual interest.

Euphorbia hypericifolia ‘Breathless® White’ has a long flowering season. It blooms continuously from spring through fall. This extended bloom period is due to the plant’s infertile flowers, which encourage continual blooming without the need for seed production. The showy white bracts, sometimes touched with blush pink, surround the tiny flowers and provide visual interest throughout the growing season, from the onset of warmer weather in spring until the first frost in fall.

Care Instructions for Euphorbia hypericifolia ‘Breathless® White’:

Euphorbia hypericifolia ‘Breathless® White’ is a low-maintenance plant that is highly tolerant of drought, heat, and browsing by deer and rabbits. Here are detailed care instructions:

• Light: Plant in full sun to partial shade. The plant adapts well to both conditions, but full sun encourages the best flowering.
• Soil: Prefers well-drained soil. It tolerates a range of soil types, from sandy to loamy, as long as drainage is good.
• Watering: Water regularly during the initial establishment period. Once established, it is quite drought-tolerant. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings to prevent root rot.
• Fertilization: Lightly fertilize with a balanced fertilizer, such as 5-10-5, in early spring to promote healthy growth.
• Pruning: Pinch back the plant to encourage a bushier habit, especially when grown in containers. Deadheading is not necessary as the plant is infertile and continues to bloom without producing seeds.
• Pest and Disease Resistance: This plant is resistant to most pests and diseases. However, the milky sap can cause contact dermatitis, so wear gloves when handling.

Propagation of Euphorbia hypericifolia ‘Breathless® White’

Euphorbia hypericifolia ‘Breathless® White’ can be propagated through cuttings or division:

1. Cuttings: Take stem cuttings in late spring or early summer. Dip the cut ends in rooting hormone and plant in well-draining soil. Keep the cuttings moist until they establish roots.
2. Division: Divide mature plants in early spring or fall. Dig up the plant and gently separate the root clumps. Replant the divisions immediately in well-drained soil.

Special Features and Landscape Use 

Breathless® White offers several attractive features:

• Drought and Heat Tolerance: Its resilience makes it ideal for low-water gardens and hot climates.
• Long Bloom Season: Continuous blooming from spring to frost provides extended visual appeal.
• Compact Habit: The plant’s mounded form makes it perfect for use as a groundcover, in border fronts, or as a filler in containers.
• Versatile Use: It can be used in fairy gardens, hanging baskets, along walkways, and even indoors as a houseplant if given sufficient light.
• Deer and Rabbit Resistance: Its resistance to browsing animals adds to its low-maintenance appeal.

Toxicity and Safety 

All parts of Euphorbia hypericifolia ‘Breathless® White’ contain a milky latex sap that can cause mild to severe contact dermatitis. If the sap comes into contact with the eyes, it can cause temporary to permanent damage to the cornea. Ingestion can lead to blistering of the lips and oral mucosa. Therefore, it is advisable to wear gloves when handling the plant and to keep it away from children and pets.

Conclusion 

Euphorbia hypericifolia ‘Breathless® White’ is an elegant and resilient addition to any garden. Its delicate, airy appearance and robust nature make it a favorite among gardeners looking for low-maintenance plants that deliver long-lasting beauty. Whether used as a filler in containers, a ground cover in borders, or a standout in drought-tolerant gardens, Breathless® White is sure to add a touch of elegance and charm to your landscape.