Euphorbia rigida, commonly known as gopher spurge or upright myrtle spurge, is a perennial herb native to the Mediterranean region, where it thrives in rocky hillsides, scrubby areas, and open woodlands. This semi-deciduous plant typically grows up to 20 inches tall and broad, forming a mound of blue-green, fleshy leaves. From late winter to early spring, it produces bright yellow, showy flower bracts that are highly attractive to pollinators. The actual flowers are small and inconspicuous, surrounded by the more noticeable bracts.

Euphorbia rigida is valued for its architectural form, drought tolerance, and low maintenance requirements, making it an excellent choice for rock gardens, Mediterranean-style landscapes, and xeriscaping. It is also used in border planting and as a ground cover. This spurge prefers full sun to light shade and thrives in well-drained soil, tolerating poor fertility and dry conditions once established. While it is generally pest-free, it can be susceptible to root rot in overly moist soils. Gardeners should handle it with care, as the sap can be irritating to the skin and eyes. It is potentially invasive in some regions, so it is crucial to check local guidelines before planting it outside its native range.CC BY-SA 4.0