1 / 5

Key characteristics

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

Groundcovers

Euphorbia cyparissias ‘Fens Ruby’

Fens Ruby Cypress Spurge

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.

Light

Full sun to partial shade

Water

Low to moderate

Bloom time

Late spring to early summer

Find this plant

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.

Printable plant sheet (PDF)