Plant Patent #18,585. 'Bonfire' reverses the normal pattern of leaf coloration: instead of beginning spring with pink or red tones and then quickly "greening out," these succulent leaves open green and turn bright red! A radiant sight in any setting, when they are topped by bold yellow blooms over many weeks, this plant is simply amazing. And it's a good size for the garden: compact enough to be popped into a container or squeezed into a small design, yet an imposing presence with which to line a walkway, color up the border, or even edge the foundation planting.
'Bonfire' is just a foot wide and slightly taller, with large, succulent leaves of deep red to burgundy. In late spring and early summer, eye-catching yellow bracts arise upon them. The flowers themselves are only 1 to 2 inches across, but the bracts are so showy that the flowers appear much larger, and make a very good showing all over this well-branched, plump little plant. Expect them to last for many weeks!
Cushion Spurge is an easy plant for normal to sandy soils, full sun to light shade, and just about any climate. Very vigorous, it makes itself at home in the garden, yet stays neat and petite. Deer leave this plant alone, so it's safe for a perimeter or open meadow setting. And butterflies enjoy the colorful blooms!
'Bonfire' was bred by Mary Ann Faria, and is certain to become a garden classic. Where else can we find so much brilliant color for so long, with so little effort? It is a treasure. Zones 5-9.
