Flowering Spurge

About Flowering Spurge

Flowering Spurge is a sophisticated native perennial that brings a delicate, airy elegance to the prairie garden, often described as the native alternative to Baby's Breath. Standing 1 to 3 feet tall, this plant features slender, upright stems topped with an abundance of small, snowy white bracts that surround tiny green flowers from early summer through August. Its smooth, whorled leaves take on attractive reddish-burgundy hues in the fall, extending its ornamental interest. Native to prairies, glades, and open woodlands throughout the eastern and central U.S., Flowering Spurge is exceptionally drought-tolerant thanks to its deep taproot, making it a perfect choice for dry, sandy, or rocky soils where other plants might struggle. Its nectar-rich blooms are highly attractive to small native bees, flies, and wasps, while its milky sap makes it naturally deer and rabbit resistant. For the best garden performance, plant it in full sun and well-drained soil. Once established, this long-lived species will reward you with years of low-maintenance beauty and a cloud-like texture that beautifully complements coarser-textured native grasses and forbs.