Euphorbia x martinii 'Ascot Rainbow'

11/26/2024 4:27 pm

 

Picture courtesy of Walters Gardens, Inc.

 

Winter is not the time that most perennials shine. There are a handful of exceptions, including Yucca and hellebores. One flowering plant that also fits the bill is Euphoria x martinii 'Ascot Rainbow' (Ascot Rainbow Spurge).

 

With yellow leaves striped inside in green, it brings a welcome pop of color through winter as it remains evergreen. As temperatures dip, the foliage takes on hues of red, pink and orange. In spring, it will send clouds of odd, airy bract-like flowers into the air. The flowers feature the same mixed colors as the leaves.

 

Picture courtesy of Walters Gardens, Inc

 

 

  

Culture and Details

 

Found and bred by Australian plantsman, David Glenn, Euphorbia 'Ascot Rainbow' has become a favorite across zones for its hardiness and unique colors. Hardy to as low as 5b, this spurge has proven cold tolerant, heat tolerant and drought tolerant. 

 

In the South, this plant performs best in Part Sun and elsewhere can take Full Sun. Plants will grow to 18 - 24" high x wide over time. Deadheading is not required, although it can be done in early spring before new shoots emerge. My anecdotal experience through the years is that Ascot Rainbow does best if not cut back. Two plants, a few feet apart from each other in my garden, show that the unpruned plant fared far better. If you do cut Euphorbias back, you might want to wear gloves as the sap can be a skin and eye irritant (although my sensitive skin has never had an issue with it).

 

As an added bonus, Ascot Rainbow Spurge has demonstrated resistance to rabbits, deers and disease making it a very low maintenance, high reward plant.

 

Flower close up. Photo courtesy of Walters Gardens, Inc.

 

 

Use

 

 

This plant is an excellent container plant given that it is both colorful and evergreen. If planted in the ground, be sure it is in well-drained soil. Euphorbia 'Ascot Rainbow' is excellent in borders and rock gardens too. Wet feet may be the Achilles' heel of this plant.