Euphorbia characias Silver Swan

Euphorbia characias 'Silver Swan' is an elegant perennial plant prized for its striking foliage and architectural form. This cultivar, a member of the Euphorbiaceae family, is known for its ornamental appeal and low-maintenance nature, making it a popular choice for Australian gardens and landscapes.

Height and Width

• Height: Typically grows to a height of 60 to 90 centimeters when mature.
• Width: Spreads out to a width of about 60 to 90 centimeters.

Soil Type

• Soil Preference: 'Silver Swan' prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a sandy or loamy texture. It can tolerate a range of soil pH levels, from slightly acidic to slightly alkaline, but performs best in soil that is rich in organic matter.

Plant Description

• Foliage: The plant features lance-shaped leaves that are variegated with shades of green, silver, and cream. The foliage has a silvery sheen and is adorned with subtle burgundy markings, adding visual interest and texture to the plant.
• Growth Habit: 'Silver Swan' has a compact, mounding growth habit with dense branching and a rounded form. It typically forms a low, bushy mound that fills in quickly, providing a colorful and attractive accent in garden beds and containers.

Flower Description

• Flowers: 'Silver Swan' produces clusters of small, inconspicuous flowers in spring to early summer. The flowers are borne in terminal clusters atop the foliage and are surrounded by colorful bracts that complement the variegated foliage. While the flowers themselves are not particularly showy, they add to the overall ornamental appeal of the plant.

Cultivation and Care

• Watering: Provide regular watering during the establishment period to encourage deep root development. Once established, 'Silver Swan' is moderately drought-tolerant and requires minimal supplemental watering, except during prolonged dry periods or hot weather.
• Sunlight: 'Silver Swan' prefers full sun to partial shade. It thrives in bright, sunny conditions and requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and foliage coloration.
• Temperature: 'Silver Swan' is well-suited to the Australian climate and thrives in warm, temperate regions. It can tolerate heat and drought once established but may benefit from protection during extreme heatwaves or prolonged dry spells.
• Pruning: Prune as needed to maintain shape, remove dead or diseased branches, and promote airflow within the canopy. 'Silver Swan' responds well to light pruning and can be shaped into a more compact form if desired.
• Fertilising: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertiliser formulated for flowering shrubs and perennials in spring to promote healthy growth and foliage coloration.

Additional Notes

• Pests and Diseases: 'Silver Swan' is relatively resistant to pests and diseases but may be susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew in humid conditions. Monitor regularly and treat promptly if issues arise.
• Uses: Ideal for use as a colorful accent or border plant in gardens, containers, and mixed plantings. 'Silver Swan' adds texture, color, and visual interest to outdoor spaces, providing year-round beauty with minimal care and maintenance.

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