Variegated Spurge
Euphorbia marginata
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
12"–36" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AZ, CO, IA, KS and 10 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Variegated spurge is an annual wildflower with distinctive white-edged green leaves that create attractive foliage displays throughout the growing season. The plant produces small white flowers from summer into fall and maintains a neat, compact growth habit. This drought-tolerant native readily self-seeds and can naturalize in sunny, well-drained areas.
In an HOA neighborhood
Variegated 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.
- Can spread aggressively through self-seeding
- May appear weedy or wild to traditional landscaping preferences
- Annual nature means gaps in coverage during establishment
Wildlife value
The flowers attract various pollinators including native bees, butterflies, and beneficial beetles during the summer and fall blooming period. As an annual that readily self-seeds, it provides consistent habitat and nectar sources year after year.
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.
Does Variegated Spurge fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.