Euphorbia is a genus in the family Euphorbiaceae; however, not all Euphorbia are equal. Sometimes, the genes that support a plants demotion to weed status such as the ability to thrive in high heat and drought may be coaxed through hybridization to produce well-behaved, highly prized landscape plants. Such is the case with Euphorbia 'Diamond Frost'. This is a very tough plant that not only survives the dog-days of summer; but thrives! All the while, the naturally mounded plants continue to be topped with clouds of delicate white flowers.
I became acquainted with 'Diamond Frost' last season thanks to Steve Foltz (Director of Horticulture, Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden). They were trying it out in a boarder planting in a difficult site. It was late July and the plants had been blooming all season - they continued to bloom until the end of the season. Despite my best efforts, I could find no evidence of plant pests or diseases. However, I have read that plants may be subject to root rot in poorly drained sites; you can't have everything!
This tough plant has a wide range of uses: from mass landscape plantings, to boarders, to hanging baskets, to containers. It can even be used as a houseplant. Plants do not require heavy fertilization or attention with pruners or dead-heading. If you're looking for a low-maintenance plant with high aesthetic returns, 'Diamond Frost' is a good choice.