Cushion Spurge

‘Bonfire’ is a named selection of cushion spurge with green lower foliage and top growth that shifts through chartreuse, orange, red, and purple tones. Its strongest color continues through the season, followed by yellow bracts in late spring. ## Growing Conditions Site this compact perennial in full sun in cooler areas and give it afternoon shade in hotter regions. It prefers average, well-drained soil and is suited to borders, rock gardens, and containers. Published growing profiles differ on mature dimensions, so plan for a low mound and confirm spacing against the plant supplied by the nursery. ## Seasonal Interest The foliage becomes burgundy-red in summer and rich red in fall, while sulfur-yellow bracts appear for several weeks in late spring. The exact plant is *Euphorbia polychroma* ‘Bonfire’ PP18585, a selection from *E. polychroma*. ## Maintenance After flowering, cut the plant back to about 4 inches to keep the mound compact and reduce splitting in the center. Wear gloves and eye protection when handling it; the sap can irritate skin and eyes. [Walters Gardens’ cultivar profile](https://www.waltersgardens.com/variety.php?ID=EUPBO) identifies the selection and its color, flowering, and care. [Darwin Perennials’ product page](https://www.darwinperennials.com/Products/Details/?phid=026001162000782) also lists the protected selection and gives a different size, so the catalog leaves exact mature dimensions unresolved.