With its delicate white blooms, the “Diamond Frost” variety of Euphorbia is a total showstopper for any balcony or patio. But don’t let the name fool you—this beauty needs a cozy spot indoors once the temperatures drop. Here’s everything you need to know about keeping your Diamond Frost happy through the winter.
Is Diamond Frost Winter-Hardy?
You’d think a plant named “Diamond Frost” (or its other common nickname, “Magic Snow”) would be a pro at handling the cold, right? Unfortunately, those names just describe the cloud of tiny white flowers that make the plant look like it’s covered in a light dusting of snow. In reality, Diamond Frost is a total tropical soul and can’t stand freezing temperatures. Because of this, many gardeners treat it as an annual, buying a fresh one every spring.
It’s not just Diamond Frost, either; many varieties in the Euphorbia family are sensitive to the cold. For some, even a dip below 50°F (10°C) can be risky. On the flip side, there are other Euphorbias that are tough as nails and can handle a deep freeze just fine. It all comes down to where the specific species originated. Since these plants are found all over the globe, frost sensitivity varies wildly from one type to the next.
How to Overwinter Your Diamond Frost
When it comes to bringing your Diamond Frost inside, sooner is definitely better than later. Those chilly autumn nights can sneak up on you and damage the plant before you know it. Generally, “Magic Snow” will survive the winter as long as the room stays above 46°F (8°C). It actually prefers it a bit warmer, but if you keep your home toasty, just make sure you’re providing enough humidity. Find a bright spot for it, but try to avoid harsh, direct sunlight and keep it away from drafty windows or doors.
Keep in mind that several other popular Euphorbias aren’t winter-hardy either and need to move indoors. It’s always a good idea to double-check which variety you have before the first frost hits. These specific types actually do much better as houseplants year-round:
- African Milk Tree (Euphorbia trigona)
- Pencil Cactus (Euphorbia tirucalli)
- Candelabra Spurge (Euphorbia lactea)
