The grey-green leaves of this evergreen perennial emerge with a pinkish-red flush and as they mature, develop a red-marked, creamy yellow margin. To add to this colourful effect, the foliage may take on a pink flush during the colder months of the year. The flowerheads, which top the leafy stems from spring, are also variegated and are a wonderful blend of green, cream and red. Drought tolerant once established, it looks marvellous in a gravel garden.
How to care for Euphorbia × martini Ascot Rainbow (PBR):
Plant in well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade, where it forms neat evergreen mounds topped with lime-green flower bracts in early spring. It’s slightly more compact and hardy than Euphorbia characias, coping better with partial shade and cooler or moister conditions.
Once established, it’s drought-tolerant and low-maintenance, needing only occasional watering during prolonged dry spells. After flowering, cut back spent stems to the base, but avoid removing fresh shoots that will produce next year’s display. Apply a light mulch in spring to conserve moisture and tidy older foliage as needed.