Horned Spurge
Euphorbia brachycera
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
6"–12" H × 6"–12" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
AZ, CO, ID, MT and 8 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Euphorbia brachycera is a compact native perennial that forms neat, low mounds of succulent-like foliage. This drought-tolerant plant produces small yellowish flowers from May through July and maintains a tidy appearance throughout the growing season.
In an HOA neighborhood
Horned Spurge takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Euphorbia species often considered weeds by HOAs
- Milky sap may be viewed as safety concern
- Uncommon plant that appears unfamiliar to most residents
Wildlife value
The flowers attract native bees and beetles during the late spring and summer blooming period. It provides habitat value for local pollinators.
Common questions
- How much sun does Horned Spurge need?
- Horned Spurge grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Horned Spurge bloom?
- Horned Spurge blooms in May, June, and July.
- Where is Horned Spurge native?
- Horned Spurge (Euphorbia brachycera) is native to AZ, CO, ID, MT and 8 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Horned Spurge attract?
- Horned Spurge draws bees and beetles.
- Is Horned Spurge HOA-friendly?
- Horned Spurge takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Horned Spurge? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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