Botanical Name: Euphorbia × martinii ‘Ascot Rainbow’

Common Name: Euphorbia, Spurge

Hardiness Zone: Perennial in Most Climates (USDA Zones 6–10)

Size: 18–24" Tall × 18–24" Spread

Growth Habit: Upright, Clump-Forming, Well-Branched Habit

Sunlight: Full Sun to Partial Shade

Soil: Prefers Well-Drained Soil; Tolerates Poor or Rocky Soils

Water Needs: Low to Moderate; Drought Tolerant Once Established

Bloom Season: Spring

Fertilizer: Minimal; Avoid Excess Fertility

Features: Blue-Green Leaves with Creamy Yellow Margins, Pink Blushed Bracts in Spring, Evergreen Foliage, Deer Resistant

Uses: Ideal for Borders, Mixed Perennial Beds, Containers, Foundation Plantings, and Modern Landscapes

Patent: ✔ Patented

Propagation: ❌ Propagation Prohibited Without License

More About Euphorbia ‘Ascot Rainbow’

Euphorbia ‘Ascot Rainbow’ is a standout perennial valued for its year-round variegated foliage and clean, architectural form. The blue-green leaves edged in creamy yellow provide constant color, while spring brings showy chartreuse bracts often flushed with pink—adding a bright seasonal highlight without overwhelming the plant’s structure.

Unlike many flowering perennials that peak briefly, ‘Ascot Rainbow’ earns its place in the garden through four-season interest. The foliage remains evergreen in mild climates and holds its shape beautifully, making it as useful in winter design as it is in spring and summer.

Why We Like It (Our Trials)

In our trials, ‘Ascot Rainbow’ has been exceptionally dependable in well-drained soils and sunny to lightly shaded locations. It tolerates heat, drought, and poor soils once established, all while maintaining a tidy, upright habit with minimal maintenance.

We especially appreciate its versatility. It works just as well as a container centerpiece as it does in perennial borders, and it pairs effortlessly with grasses, lavenders, salvias, and other drought-tolerant plants. Deer typically avoid it, adding another layer of reliability in the landscape.

Euphorbia ‘Ascot Rainbow’ vs. Other Euphorbia

Compared to solid-green euphorbia varieties, ‘Ascot Rainbow’ offers far greater visual interest thanks to its variegated foliage and colorful spring bracts. While green forms act as background structure, this selection functions as both structure and highlight.

When compared to more aggressive euphorbia types, ‘Ascot Rainbow’ stays well-behaved and clump-forming, making it easier to manage in refined plantings and containers. For gardeners seeking a low-maintenance perennial with year-round color and modern appeal, Euphorbia ‘Ascot Rainbow’ is one of the best choices available.