Euphorbia plants are total fan favorites for our living rooms. With their exotic, architectural looks, they can level up any indoor space in no time. While most of these beauties aren’t exactly built for life outdoors, there are actually a few exceptions to the rule!
Euphorbia: A Massive Family Tree
The genus *Euphorbia* is huge, boasting more than 2,000 different species. Because the family is so diverse, there’s no “one size fits all” rule for their care. The same goes for their cold tolerance. Since these plants hail from all corners of the globe, you’ll find everything from hardy outdoor varieties to super sensitive types that start shivering the moment it hits 50°F. Those delicate varieties, of course, make for perfect houseplants.
Don’t Let the Names Fool You
From the African Milk Tree to the Pencil Cactus, Euphorbias have some pretty cool nicknames. You might even run into a variety called “Diamond Frost” (also known as “Euphorbia hypericifolia”). But don’t let that magical, wintry name trick you—it has nothing to do with being frost-tolerant! The name actually refers to its cloud of tiny, delicate white flowers. In reality, “Diamond Frost” needs a warm, cozy spot to overwinter indoors. Always double-check the label so you don’t get misled by a catchy name.
Handling the Cold-Sensitive Types
For many Euphorbias, you’ll want to keep a close eye on the thermometer as summer winds down. While they love soaking up the sun on the patio during July, some get grumpy as soon as the nights get crisp. The combination of dropping temperatures and autumn dampness is a recipe for disaster—it’s very common to see rot spots forming on species like the African Milk Tree if they’re left out too long.
When you move them inside for the winter, try to keep them in a spot that stays at least 60°F. Most Euphorbias are perfectly happy in even warmer rooms. Just remember to dial back the watering significantly during the dormant winter months. Check out the list below for a quick breakdown of who’s who in the cold.
Euphorbias and Frost: The Quick Cheat Sheet
- The *Euphorbia* genus includes over 2,000 different species.
- Their origins are spread across the entire globe.
- Whether a plant can handle the cold depends entirely on where its ancestors came from.
- Frost-sensitive types: Pencil Cactus, Madagascar Jewel, Diamond Frost.
- Winter-hardy varieties: Petty Spurge (*Euphorbia peplus*), Marsh Spurge (*Euphorbia palustris*).
