Drought-Tolerant Annual Snow-on-the-Mountain Seeds with Striking White-Edged Foliage – Euphorbia marginata

Description Snow-on-the-Mountain Seeds Euphorbia marginata – Variegated spurge with striking white-margined bracts and foliage A showy annual featuring light green leaves broadly edged in pure white, creating a cool, snow-dusted appearance. Tiny true flowers are surrounded by conspicuous white bracts, adding long-lasting texture to borders and cut arrangements. Heat and drought tolerant once established, and naturally resistant to deer and rabbits. Common Name: Snow-on-the-Mountain, Ghost Weed Latin Name: Euphorbia marginata Plant Height: 18–36 in (45–90 cm) Seeds per Gram: ≈ 35–45 seeds/gram Life Cycle: Annual (fast-growing, blooms first year) Available Color: White bracts with green foliage Non-GMO · Open-pollinated · Heirloom type · Striking white-edged foliage for borders and cutting Botanical & Variety Details Common name(s)Snow-on-the-Mountain, Ghost Weed, Variegated Spurge, Mountain Snow Latin nameEuphorbia marginata – classic variegated accent annual Mature height45–90 cm (18–36″) — upright, branching stems ideal for mass planting Seeds per gram~35–45 seeds/gram (approx. 1,000–1,300 seeds/oz) Growth cycleAnnual — completes lifecycle in one season, fast and easy from seed Ornamental periodMidsummer to early autumn (white bracts hold color for several weeks) Unique trait Broad white upper leaves · Showy white bracts · Deer & rabbit resistant · Excellent as cut flower filler �� Planting & Growing Guide �� Best planting seasonDirect sow in spring after last frost, or start indoors 4–6 weeks before last frost. In mild regions (zones 8–10), late summer sowing brings autumn color. ��️ Ideal temperature65–75°F (18–24°C) for germination; grows best in 60–85°F (15–29°C) ☀️ Shade requirementFull sun is essential (minimum 6 hours of direct sun). Light shade reduces the intensity of white variegation and can cause leggy growth. �� Sowing rate (per m²)0.5–1 gram per square meter (approx. 20–45 seeds/m²) for a dense, snow-like display. �� Sowing depth1/4 inch (6 mm) — cover lightly with soil; keep evenly moist until emergence. �� Water & careKeep moist until germination (10–20 days). Once established, water sparingly; drought tolerant. Avoid overhead watering to prevent foliar issues. �� Spacing after thinningThin or transplant to 12–18 inches (30–45 cm) apart to allow good air circulation. �� Days to bloomApprox. 70–80 days from sowing (first white bracts appear in midsummer). Sun requirement: Full sun produces the brightest white margins and most compact habit. In partial shade, foliage stays greener and stems stretch. Provide afternoon protection only in extreme heat (zones 9 ). Pro density tip: For a dedicated cutting patch, sow 1 g/m² and thin to 12″ apart. For naturalized drifts, sow 0.5 g/m². Succession sow every 3–4 weeks to extend the display into early autumn. Sowing quick guide: Spring · Full sun · 0.5–1 g/m² · Cover ¼″ deep Germination 65–75°F | Full sun essential for strong variegation Harvest when upper bracts are fully white for the longest vase life. Deadheading is not necessary for display but can limit self-seeding. Deer resistant · Great for fresh or dried arrangements · Pollinator-friendly summer accent.