Snow-on-the-Mountain
Euphorbia marginata
Snow-on-the-Mountain is a striking annual known for dramatic white-edged foliage that resembles snow-dusted leaves. Native to the Great Plains, this drought-tolerant plant adds architectural interest to gardens with its variegated appearance.
Euphorbiaceae (Spurge family)
Summer to early fall (July-October)
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Cultural Significance
Snow-on-the-Mountain earned its evocative name from the white-margined upper leaves that look like a dusting of snow on green foliage. In pioneer prairie culture, it represented both the beauty and harshness of the Great Plains - beautiful to look at but demanding respect (due to toxic sap). The common name "Smoke-on-the-Prairie" suggests the ethereal, misty appearance of massed plantings. Type specimen was collected during the Lewis and Clark Expedition from Montana's Yellowstone River area. The plant symbolizes adaptation to harsh conditions and the striking beauty that can emerge from seemingly barren landscapes.Shop Our Floral Collection
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Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Full sun (at least 6 hours); tolerates partial shade but may become floppy
Water
Low; highly drought-tolerant once established
Soil
Well-drained, Poor to average soil, Rocky, Sandy, Tolerates various soil types
Expert Growing Tips
Sow seeds directly in spring after last frost or in fall
Self-seeds readily and will naturalize in the garden
Deadhead to prevent excessive self-seeding if needed
Thrives in heat and tolerates poor, dry soils
Some afternoon shade beneficial in hot climates
CRITICAL: Wear gloves when cutting or handling - milky sap is toxic and causes skin irritation
Sap can cause severe dermatitis, eye damage, and digestive issues if ingested
Deer and rabbit resistant
Upper leaves develop white margins as plant matures, sometimes becoming all white
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Beds and borders for foliage contrast
- Wildflower meadows and prairie gardens
- Cutting gardens (long-lasting in arrangements)
- Specimen plantings and accents
- Xeriscaping and drought-tolerant landscapes
- Cottage gardens
Traditional Uses
- Not used in modern herbal medicine
- All parts toxic - contains poisonous milky latex
- Can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and skin burns if contacted or ingested
- Keep away from children and pets
Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Snow-on-the-Mountain
is snow-on-the-mountain poisonous?
Yes, all parts of Snow-on-the-Mountain are toxic. The milky sap causes severe skin irritation, burns, and can cause blindness if it gets in eyes. Ingestion causes vomiting and diarrhea.
will snow-on-the-mountain come back?
Snow-on-the-Mountain is an annual that dies after setting seed, but it readily self-seeds and will return year after year through natural reseeding in optimal conditions.
how to safely handle snow-on-the-mountain?
Always wear gloves when handling Snow-on-the-Mountain. The milky sap can cause severe skin burns. Avoid touching your face or eyes, and wash hands thoroughly after contact.
is snow-on-the-mountain deer resistant?
Yes, Snow-on-the-Mountain is deer and rabbit resistant due to its toxic, irritating milky sap that deters browsing animals.
what does snow-on-the-mountain symbolize?
Snow-on-the-Mountain symbolizes purity, contrast, and prairie resilience. Its white-edged leaves resemble snow dusting, representing beauty emerging from harsh Great Plains landscapes.
when does snow-on-the-mountain get white leaves?
Snow-on-the-Mountain leaves start green in spring, then upper leaves develop white margins as the plant matures in summer, sometimes becoming entirely white by flowering time.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
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