The Blue Haze Spurge is indeed deer resistant. This means that deer are less likely to graze on or damage this plant compared to other types of vegetation in your garden. As a gardening and landscaping expert, I have encountered many situations where deer have caused significant damage to gardens and landscapes, so finding deer-resistant plants is always a priority for many gardeners.
Deer can be quite notorious for their voracious appetites, often feasting on plants and flowers in search of food. However, certain plants have natural characteristics that make them less appealing to deer. The Blue Haze Spurge is one such plant.
The Blue Haze Spurge is a tough relative of the Christmas Poinsettia, and it boasts interesting cup-shaped yellow “flowers” that bloom in late spring into summer. These flowers are actually bracts, which are modified leaves that surround the true flowers. They create a beautiful display and add a touch of color to your garden.
One of the key reasons why the Blue Haze Spurge is deer resistant is its foliage. Deer tend to avoid plants with fuzzy or hairy leaves, as they find the texture unappealing. The Blue Haze Spurge has blue-green leaves that are covered in fine hairs, making it less attractive to grazing deer. This natural defense mechanism helps protect the plant from being consumed by these animals.
In addition to its fuzzy leaves, the Blue Haze Spurge also contains a milky sap that is toxic and bitter. This sap serves as another deterrent for deer, as they have an innate sense to avoid plants with unpleasant tastes or smells. This toxic sap can cause skin irritation in humans, so it’s important to handle the plant with care and wear gloves when working with it.
When it comes to the care and maintenance of the Blue Haze Spurge, it has relatively low to moderate water needs once established. It prefers well-drained soil, so it’s important to ensure that the soil does not become waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other issues, so it’s best to water the plant sparingly and only when the soil is dry.
In terms of planting, the Blue Haze Spurge thrives in full sun to partial shade conditions. It is a perennial plant, which means it will come back year after year, providing long-lasting beauty in your garden. It can grow to be around 1 to 2 feet tall and wide, so be sure to give it enough space to spread out and grow.
The Blue Haze Spurge is a deer-resistant plant that adds interest and color to your garden. Its fuzzy leaves and toxic sap make it unappealing to deer, helping to protect it from being eaten. With proper care and maintenance, this plant can thrive in your garden and provide you with beautiful cup-shaped yellow “flowers” year after year.
