snow-on-the-mountain
snow-on-the-mountain, (Euphorbia marginata), succulent plant of the spurge family (Euphorbiaceae), native to the central plains of the United States. The plants, which grow to a height of 60 cm (2 feet), have long, oval, light green foliage, with white-margined leaves near the top, where several white whorls of bracts (leaflike structures) are clustered. The plant has long been a favourite as a garden annual and in flower arrangements, though some people are allergic to its white latex sap.
This article was most recently revised and updated by Melissa Petruzzello.
Citation Information
Article Title:
snow-on-the-mountain
Website Name:
Encyclopaedia Britannica
Publisher:
Encyclopaedia Britannica, Inc.
Date Published:
13 January 2016
Access Date:
November 14, 2026