Northwest Blooms · Groundcovers
Euphorbia cyparissias ‘Fens Ruby’
Fens Ruby Cypress Spurge
- Family
- Euphorbiaceae
- Height
- 12 to 18 inches
- Width
- 18 to 24 inches
- Flower color
- Chartreuse
- Foliage color
- Blue-green with purple-red tips
- Bloom time
- Late spring to early summer
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade
- Water
- Low to moderate
- Maintenance
- Low
- Growing zone
- USDA Zones 6 to 9
- Wildlife
- Not attractive to wildlife, but may occasionally attract pollinators like bees
About this plant
Euphorbia cyparissias 'Fens Ruby' is an eye-catching groundcover known for its dramatic foliage and unique appearance. This cultivar features dark blue-green leaves that develop rich, ruby-red hues, particularly in cooler weather or under stress. From late spring to early summer, it produces clusters of small, chartreuse flowers, which are less prominent compared to the plant's vivid foliage.
Native to the Mediterranean region, Euphorbia cyparissias is well-suited for dry, well-drained soils, making it a great choice for rock gardens, low-maintenance borders, and containers. The 'Fens Ruby' variety is appreciated for its enhanced color, adding a splash of deep red to the garden throughout much of the year. Its resilient nature and striking foliage make it a popular choice for gardeners looking to add unique, vibrant elements to their landscapes.
Works well in
Rock Gardens · Mediterranean Gardens · Borders · Waterwise Gardens
Companion plants
Lavender · Blue oat grass · Stonecrops · Russian sage · Candytufts · Rockroses
Design tip
Position this colorful groundcover where its foliage can contrast with silver- or blue-leaved companions throughout the growing season. Repeating clusters among gravel, stone, or boulders creates bold visual accents while reinforcing the structure of dry, Mediterranean-style plantings.
