Diamond Frost Euphorbia is among a new line of plants offered by Proven Winners. It has received rave reviews from most of the national bedding plant trials, including those at Colorado State University.
Diamond Frost Euphorbia is a hybrid that includes Euphorbia characias ssp. wulfenii. Most of the information rates the toxicity of this species from mild stomach discomfort if ingested to blisters on the skin. What that means is that there is not enough data to make a real recommendation or take a firm stand on its relative toxicity.
Based on what is known about many of the Euphorbia species, this plant is most likely poisonous. However, its use in the landscape is not to be excluded. Here are some points to note:
1. The plant is heat and drought tolerant.
2. The plant is deer resistant (they know what to eat and what not to eat).
3. The plant is attractive.
You can be very comfortable using this plant in beds in meridian strips and along areas that are difficult to maintain because they are out of reach. Do not use this plant near play areas (e.g., playgrounds, tot lots, and athletic fields) or areas where many people regularly take pets. Do not grow it in the house with small children and pets.
For more information on poisonous plants, see the Web site below:
The genus Euphorbia contains more than 1,600 species of herbs, shrubs, and trees, many of which have significant economic value. Euphorbia pulcherrima is the common poinsettia and Hevea brasiliensis is the rubber tree, the natural source of rubber. Species within the Euphorbia have a secondary vascular system called laticifers. These channels collect plant by-products, which we know as latex. The relative toxicity of this latex varies with Euphorbia species and the animal that comes into contact with that species.
