Euphorbia milii

and E. X lomi hybrids

Many people will recognise the common red flowered form of this plant, but selection and breeding work carried out in various parts of the world have produced a range of flower colours and improved growth forms. Some are suitable as drought-tolerant bedding, others as feature plants.

Strains developed in Thailand known as Poysean hybrids (from a common name in Chinese for E. milii) or Thai hybrids are becoming very popular internationally. They're officially designated Euphorbia x lomi. Besides E. milii, E. lophogona is typically also in the parentage.

These hybrids available in a variety of flower colours. They're thorny but leafy succulents with colourful flowers (in the same family as the poinsettia). They're typically grown in pots, but can be grown in the ground in hot climates. They will be able to tolerate periods of dryness, but they are leafy and and for best results would benefit from regular moisture provided they have good drainage.

Thorniness may be an issue for some people. A variety called Lipstick is said to have softer thorns. As members of the genus Euphorbia they may also have toxic or have irritant sap. So, locate them away from traffic or children and take appropriate care when handling.

Smaller-growing euphorbias (e.g. Sonoma series) of a similar style to the poysean hybrids might be suitable for smaller pots or garden edges.

Buy these plants at regular garden centres. Collecting and breeding doesn't seem to be as popular in Australia as it is in Asia, but there might be some specialists how have fancy types for sale if you hunt around. If you operate a nursery (including online and mail order) supplying such plants, get in touch about advertising on this page.

Euphorbia milii and Poysean hybrids in the landscape

The following photographs were taken in Brisbane. They may give you some ideas for using these plants in your garden.