Gopher Plant

The Gopher Plant, scientifically known as Euphorbia rigida (formerly known as Euphorbia biglandulosa), is a striking and architectural succulent native to the Mediterranean region. It's valued for its unique foliage and bright, showy flowers.

Growing to about 2 to 3 feet in height and 3 to 4 feet in width, the Gopher Plant forms a dense, upright clump of blue-green, cylindrical stems. These stems are ridged and may have small spines along the edges. The foliage has a waxy coating, giving it a silvery-blue appearance.

One of the most striking features of the Gopher Plant is its flowers. In late winter to early spring, it produces bright yellow to greenish-yellow blooms. These flowers are actually bracts (modified leaves) that surround the small, true flowers. The bracts add a splash of color to the landscape, particularly in the late winter when few other plants are in bloom.

Euphorbia rigida thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers well-drained soil. It's drought-tolerant and well-suited to xeriscaping and Mediterranean-style gardens. Like many Euphorbias, the Gopher Plant produces a milky sap when cut or broken, which can be irritating to the skin and eyes.

In landscaping, the Gopher Plant is often used for its structural form and is effective in rock gardens, succulent gardens, and as a border plant. Its blue-green foliage and bright yellow flowers make it an attractive addition to dry garden landscapes and coastal gardens.

Overall, the Gopher Plant is a low-maintenance and visually appealing succulent, ideal for adding architectural interest and winter color to a garden. Its unique form, drought tolerance, and striking blooms make it a favorite among gardeners looking for an easy-care yet impactful plant.