This succulent has been selected as Extraordinary New Plant for 2012 by the UK Gardener's Association. The variegated and distinctive foliage on this plant stands out in any perennial bed and provides a unique coloration during the winter months. The color is a combination and mixture of cream, lime-green, darker green with a striking red and mauve coloration in new bracts. The reddish tones are particularly pronounced on new growth throughout the winter or cooler months.

The blooms are characteristic of other modern hybrid euphorbia and remain on the small shrubs for a long period in late spring. This cushion spurge is a perennial reaching 12 to 24" in the garden and should be planted in full sun in the lower USDA zones of 6a to 8. This small shrub will bloom consistently in afternoon shade in USDA zones 8 to 9b and can remain "evergreen" in milder climates. There are no known pests or diseases.

"Ascot Rainbow" is from Australia and is considered a sport of Tasmanian Tiger and several other of the modern Euphorbia hybrids. As with all euphorbias, avoid skin contact with the milky sap. Unlike many of the more common Euphorbias, this plant has no spines, spikes or sharp prongs. It is drought-tolerant when established, but is considered a succulent and not a cactus.