Moroccan Mound

Plant Type: Euphorbia
Plant Height: 12-18 inches
Spread: 18-24 inches
Flower Color: yellow to orange
Sun Exposure: Full Sun, Partial Shade

Moroccan Mound (Euphorbia resinifera) – A Low-Maintenance, Drought-Tolerant Succulent for Phoenix Gardens

The Moroccan Mound, scientifically known as Euphorbia resinifera, is a highly attractive succulent plant native to the rocky hillsides of Morocco. Its mound-forming growth habit and architectural structure make it a standout feature in both indoor and outdoor settings, especially in Phoenix’s desert landscapes where low-water plants are essential.

Unique Mound-Forming Appearance

This succulent typically reaches about 12 to 18 inches in height and spreads 18 to 24 inches wide, forming a dense cluster of fleshy, four-sided stems. These stems are bright green and feature distinct ridges lined with small, sharp spines that add texture to the plant’s appearance. As it matures, the Moroccan Mound creates a striking mound-like formation, perfect for adding visual interest to your garden.

Drought-Tolerant and Easy to Care For

The Moroccan Mound is perfectly suited for full sun to partial shade and thrives in well-draining soil—ideal for xeriscaping in Phoenix’s hot, dry climate. This plant is highly drought-tolerant, requiring minimal watering, and is well-adapted to desert landscaping where water conservation is a priority. In colder climates, it can easily be grown in containers and brought indoors during the winter months to protect it from frost.

Architectural Addition to Any Garden

Euphorbia resinifera produces small yellow or orange flowers in the spring and summer, though these blooms are subtle compared to its striking green foliage. Its compact, sprawling form makes it a great ground cover or accent plant in rock gardens, succulent gardens, and drought-tolerant landscapes. The spiny texture adds depth and contrast, while its dense, clumping growth makes it a perfect fit for filling out dry, sunny areas in your garden.

Key Benefits:

• Mound-forming growth habit adds texture and structure to any landscape.
• Thrives in full sun and well-draining soil, making it ideal for Phoenix’s desert environment.
• Highly drought-tolerant, requiring very little water, perfect for xeriscaping.
• Minimal maintenance, ideal for busy homeowners or those new to gardening.
• Adds architectural interest to rock gardens, succulent gardens, and container displays.

Care and Maintenance

The Moroccan Mound thrives in bright sunlight, but can tolerate partial shade, making it adaptable to various garden settings. It requires well-draining soil to prevent water retention and root rot. As a low-maintenance plant, it requires only occasional watering—just enough to prevent the soil from completely drying out during extremely hot periods. Care should be taken when handling, as the plant’s sap can be irritating to the skin and eyes.

Bring Desert Beauty to Your Phoenix Landscape

The Moroccan Mound (Euphorbia resinifera) is the perfect plant for Phoenix gardeners seeking a low-maintenance, drought-tolerant addition to their landscape. Its unique form and spiny texture create visual interest, while its ability to thrive with minimal water makes it an excellent choice for xeriscaping and desert-themed gardens. Whether used as a ground cover or a standalone accent, this succulent will add a touch of exotic elegance to any outdoor space.

Three Timbers Installation Guide (Feel Free to Follow): Moroccan Mound

Planting Guide:

• Location: Full sun (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight for optimal growth)
• Soil: Well-drained, loamy or sandy soil (slightly acidic to neutral soil preferred)
• Spacing: Space plants 2-3 feet apart for a mounding, ground-cover effect
• Planting Depth: Plant at the same depth as the root ball, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil surface
• Support: Moroccan Mound is a low-growing shrub that requires no staking and forms a dense, mound-like shape

Watering Guide:

Watering After Planting:

• Initial Watering: Water thoroughly immediately after planting to saturate the root ball and surrounding soil
• Frequency: Water every 3-4 days for the first 2-3 weeks to help establish the root system
• Watering Amount: Provide 1-1.5 inches of water per session for deep watering

When is the Plant Established?

• Timeframe: Moroccan Mound is considered established after 2-3 months when the roots have spread into the surrounding soil

Watering Once Established:

• Summer: Water every 7-10 days during the hotter months. If temperatures exceed 100°F, increase watering to every 5-7 days. Provide 1.5-2 inches of water per session.
• Winter: Water every 3-4 weeks during the cooler months, depending on rainfall.

Drip Irrigation Setup:

• Placement of Emitters: Place the drip emitters 6-12 inches away from the base of the plant to ensure deep watering
• Flow Rate: Use emitters with a flow rate of 1-2 gallons per hour
• Number of Emitters: 1 emitter per plant for even watering distribution
• Adjusting Frequency: In summer, increase watering to every 5-7 days. In winter, reduce to every 3-4 weeks