Why is My Ascot Rainbow Spurge Plant Falling Over? Troubleshooting Tips

//

Robby

With its vibrant, colorful foliage, Ascot Rainbow spurge (Euphorbia x martinii ‘Ascot Rainbow’) is a gorgeous addition to any garden. However, if you’ve noticed your plant beginning to droop, lean, or fall over, it likely needs some troubleshooting to get it back to good health. In this article, we’ll explore the top reasons your Ascot Rainbow spurge may be toppling over and provide solutions to restore its beauty and vigor.

Insufficient Support

One of the most common reasons for a leaning or falling over Ascot Rainbow spurge is a lack of proper support. This perennial can grow up to 18-24 inches tall with a similar spread. With its top-heavy foliage, floppy stems may bend under the weight without adequate support.

Add stakes, trellises, or rings to prop up drooping stems. Tie the stems loosely to prevent damage. Place supports at planting and make adjustments as the plant matures. Proper staking prevents excessive drooping and damage from wind or rain.

Overwatering

Too much moisture is a prime suspect for your toppling Ascot Rainbow spurge Overwatering leads to root rot and other issues that weaken stems and cause floppiness, Leaves may also yellow or wilt

Allow the soil to partially dry between waterings. Ascot Rainbow spurge thrives in well-draining soil. Add sand or perlite to improve drainage. Water only when the top 1-2 inches of soil become dry.

Underwatering

On the flip side, inadequate water also causes Ascot Rainbow spurge to go limp and fall over. As moisture is depleted, stems and leaves droop and plants lean over seeking water. Leaves may appear dried out.

Give plants a deep watering if soil is very dry. Then resume a regular schedule, watering when the top few inches of soil feel dry. Be sure the entire root zone receives moisture.

Insufficient Light

Ascot Rainbow spurge flourishes in full sun to partial shade. Without adequate brightness, growth becomes leggy and weak, unable to support itself upright. Foliage may fade without enough light fueling photosynthesis.

Move plants to the sunniest spot possible. South or west-facing exposure is ideal. Supplement with grow lights if indoor light is low Rotate pots periodically for even exposure

Temperature Stress

Temperature swings and extremes also cause Ascot Rainbow spurge to go limp and flop over. Cold drafts, heat vents, and rapid weather changes shock plants. Keep indoor temperatures steady between 60-75°F.

Shield outdoor plants from harsh sun using shade cloth. Move pots to sheltered areas. Insulate roots from temperature shifts using mulch. Avoid placing pots on hot concrete or pavement.

Root Disturbances

Root issues like circling roots, bound roots, or transplant shock disrupt water and nutrient uptake, leading to weak growth prone to toppling over. Healthy white roots with room to spread keep plants upright.

Carefully loosen circling roots before repotting. Move plants to slightly larger containers. Allow several weeks after repotting for roots to establish before resuming fertilizing.

Nutrient Deficiency

Without proper nutrition, Ascot Rainbow spurge lacks the strength to stay upright. Essential nutrients like nitrogen promote lush, vigorous growth while phosphorus aids in root, stem, and flower development.

Feed plants with a balanced liquid fertilizer every 2-4 weeks during the growing season. Incorporate slow-release granular fertilizer at planting time. Test soil pH to ensure proper nutrient availability.

Environmental Factors

Wind, rain, and other elements can batter tender Ascot Rainbow spurge stems, causing leaning and toppling over time. Shelter plants or use supports to minimize environmental stresses. Stake and tie up fallen stems to recover.

Trim or pinch back new growth to reduce sail effect and encourage sturdy, compact plants better able to withstand weather factors. Site plants in protected microclimates.

Pests or Diseases

Harmful insects and diseases degrade Ascot Rainbow spurge’s health and resilience. Aphids, spider mites, and other pests suck sap, damaging tissue. Fungal issues rot roots and stems.

Inspect regularly and treat pests or disease early. Remove infected parts promptly. Improve airflow and spacing between plants. Disinfect tools after use.

With the proper troubleshooting and care, your limp Ascot Rainbow spurge can return to its former glory. Evaluate overall growing conditions and make adjustments to get your plant looking perky again this season!

why is my ascot rainbow spurge plant falling over

ENTER YOUR ZIP CODE:

Thank you, your growing zone is {{ foundZoneData.grow_zone }} {% if isLoading == true %} {% endif %} {% if errorMessage != blank %} {{ errorMessage }} {% elsif foundZoneData %}

Not sure just how many plants will fit in your garden? Our calculator gives you the exact amount of plants required for your space. Area Foot Length

{% assign calcLengthError = errors | where: “fieldId”, “calcLength” | first %}{{ calcLengthError.message }} Area Foot Width

{% assign calcWidthError = errors | where: “fieldId”, “calcWidth” | first %}{{ calcWidthError.message }} Spacing Feet

{% assign calcFeetError = errors | where: “fieldId”, “calcFeet” | first %}{{ calcFeetError.message }} Spacing Inches

{% assign calcInchesError = errors | where: “fieldId”, “calcInches” | first %}{{ calcInchesError.message }}

{% if totalPlantCount %}{{ totalPlantCount }}{% endif %}

  • Home
  • Ascot Rainbow Spurge
  • {% assign use_variant_s = false %} {% capture vertical_scroll %}{% endcapture %} {%- if use_variant_s and variant.s[0] -%} {%- assign s = variant.s -%} {%- else -%} {%- assign s = product.s -%} {%- endif -%} {% assign last_slide = 0 %} {%- for in s offset: imgOffset -%} {% capture Responsive %} {%- if != blank -%} {%- if .width > 180 -%}{{ .src | img_url: 180x }} 180w {{ 180 | divided_by: .aspect_ratio | round }}h,{%- endif -%} {%- if .width > 360 -%}{{ .src | img_url: 360x }} 360w {{ 360 | divided_by: .aspect_ratio | round }}h,{%- endif -%} {%- if .width > 540 -%}{{ .src | img_url: 540x }} 540w {{ 540 | divided_by: .aspect_ratio | round }}h,{%- endif -%} {%- if .width > 720 -%}{{ .src | img_url: 720x }} 720w {{ 720 | divided_by: .aspect_ratio | round }}h,{%- endif -%} {%- if .width > 900 -%}{{ .src | img_url: 900x }} 900w {{ 900 | divided_by: .aspect_ratio | round }}h,{%- endif -%} {%- if .width > 1080 -%}{{ .src | img_url: 1080x }} 1080w {{ 1080 | divided_by: .aspect_ratio | round }}h,{%- endif -%} {%- if .width > 1296 -%}{{ .src | img_url: 1296x }} 1296w {{ 1296 | divided_by: .aspect_ratio | round }}h,{%- endif -%} {%- if .width > 1512 -%}{{ .src | img_url: 1512x }} 1512w {{ 1512 | divided_by: .aspect_ratio | round }}h,{%- endif -%} {%- if .width > 1728 -%}{{ .src | img_url: 1728x }} 1728w {{ 1728 | divided_by: .aspect_ratio | round }}h,{%- endif -%} {%- if .width > 1944 -%}{{ .src | img_url: 1944x }} 1944w {{ 1944 | divided_by: .aspect_ratio | round }}h,{%- endif -%} {%- if .width > 2160 -%}{{ .src | img_url: 2160x }} 2160w {{ 2160 | divided_by: .aspect_ratio | round }}h,{%- endif -%} {%- if .width > 2376 -%}{{ .src | img_url: 2376x }} 2376w {{ 2376 | divided_by: .aspect_ratio | round }}h,{%- endif -%} {%- if .width > 2592 -%}{{ .src | img_url: 2592x }} 2592w {{ 2592 | divided_by: .aspect_ratio | round }}h,{%- endif -%} {%- if .width > 2808 -%}{{ .src | img_url: 2808x }} 2808w {{ 2808 | divided_by: .aspect_ratio | round }}h,{%- endif -%} {%- if .width > 3024 -%}{{ .src | img_url: 3024x }} 3024w {{ 3024 | divided_by: .aspect_ratio | round }}h,{%- endif -%} {%- assign _size = .width | append: x -%} {{ .src | img_url: _size }} {{ .width }}w {{ .height }}h {%- endif -%} {% endcapture %} {% if forloop.first or product.tags contains Graphic Overlay%} {% endif %} {% assign last_slide = forloop.index %} {% endfor %} {% assign last_slide = 0 %} {% assign imgOffset = 0 %} {% if product.tags contains Graphic Overlay %} {% assign imgOffset = 1 %} {% endif %} {%- for in s offset: imgOffset -%} {% capture thumbRepsonsive %} {%- if != blank -%} {%- if .width > 180 -%}{{ .src | img_url: 180x }} 180w {{ 180 | divided_by: .aspect_ratio | round }}h,{%- endif -%} {%- if .width > 360 -%}{{ .src | img_url: 360x }} 360w {{ 360 | divided_by: .aspect_ratio | round }}h,{%- endif -%} {%- if .width > 540 -%}{{ .src | img_url: 540x }} 540w {{ 540 | divided_by: .aspect_ratio | round }}h,{%- endif -%} {%- if .width > 720 -%}{{ .src | img_url: 720x }} 720w {{ 720 | divided_by: .aspect_ratio | round }}h,{%- endif -%} {%- if .width > 900 -%}{{ .src | img_url: 900x }} 900w {{ 900 | divided_by: .aspect_ratio | round }}h,{%- endif -%} {%- if .width > 1080 -%}{{ .src | img_url: 1080x }} 1080w {{ 1080 | divided_by: .aspect_ratio | round }}h,{%- endif -%} {%- if .width > 1296 -%}{{ .src | img_url: 1296x }} 1296w {{ 1296 | divided_by: .aspect_ratio | round }}h,{%- endif -%} {%- if .width > 1512 -%}{{ .src | img_url: 1512x }} 1512w {{ 1512 | divided_by: .aspect_ratio | round }}h,{%- endif -%} {%- if .width > 1728 -%}{{ .src | img_url: 1728x }} 1728w {{ 1728 | divided_by: .aspect_ratio | round }}h,{%- endif -%} {%- if .width > 1944 -%}{{ .src | img_url: 1944x }} 1944w {{ 1944 | divided_by: .aspect_ratio | round }}h,{%- endif -%} {%- if .width > 2160 -%}{{ .src | img_url: 2160x }} 2160w {{ 2160 | divided_by: .aspect_ratio | round }}h,{%- endif -%} {%- if .width > 2376 -%}{{ .src | img_url: 2376x }} 2376w {{ 2376 | divided_by: .aspect_ratio | round }}h,{%- endif -%} {%- if .width > 2592 -%}{{ .src | img_url: 2592x }} 2592w {{ 2592 | divided_by: .aspect_ratio | round }}h,{%- endif -%} {%- if .width > 2808 -%}{{ .src | img_url: 2808x }} 2808w {{ 2808 | divided_by: .aspect_ratio | round }}h,{%- endif -%} {%- if .width > 3024 -%}{{ .src | img_url: 3024x }} 3024w {{ 3024 | divided_by: .aspect_ratio | round }}h,{%- endif -%} {%- assign _size = .width | append: x -%} {{ .src | img_url: _size }} {{ .width }}w {{ .height }}h {%- endif -%} {% endcapture %} {% assign last_slide = forloop.index %} {% endfor %}

  • Variegated foliage takes on a kaleidoscope of color in cool temperatures!
  • Blooms in late spring with variegated flowers.
  • Ideal for containers, mixed beds, or xeriscaping.
  • Handles drought, heat, deer, and rabbits with ease.
  • Zones 5-9, sun to part sun, 20″ tall and wide at maturity.
  • Zone 5-9 Light part sun/sun short {% capture DiscountGroup %}1{% endcapture %} {% capture DiscountTier %}1{% endcapture %} {% assign DiscountGroup = DiscountGroup | plus: 0 %} {% assign DiscountTier = DiscountTier | plus: 0 %} {% assign discount_amount = 0 %} {% for group in product.discounts_structure.groups %} {% if group.id == DiscountGroup %} {% for tier in group.tiers %} {% if tier.id == DiscountTier %} {% for discount in tier.discount %} {% if discount.min_quantity > variant.quantity %}{% break %}{% endif %} {% assign discount_amount = discount.discount_amount | times: 100 %} {% endfor %} {% break %} {% endif %} {% endfor %} {% break %} {% endif %} {% endfor %} {% if variant.price < variant.compare_at_price %} Sale {{- variant.price | minus: discount_amount | money | remove: -}} {{- variant.compare_at_price | money | remove: -}} {% else %} {{- variant.price | money | remove: -}} {% endif %}

    {% for discountGroup in product.discounts_structure.groups %} {% if discountGroup.id == 1 %} {% for discountTier in discountGroup.tiers %} {% if discountTier.id == 1%} {% for discount in discountTier.discount %}

  • {% assign discount_amount = discount.discount_amount | times: 100 %} {% assign tier_ceiling = 10000 %} {% if discountTier.discount[forloop.index] != blank %}{% assign tier_ceiling = discountTier.discount[forloop.index].min_quantity | minus: 1 %}{% endif %} {{ variant.price | money | remove: }} {{ variant.price | minus: discount_amount | money | remove: }} / {{ discount.min_quantity }}{% if discountTier.discount[forloop.index] != blank %}-{{ discountTier.discount[forloop.index].min_quantity | minus: 1 }}{% else %}+{% endif %} qty.
  • {% endfor %} {% endif %} {% endfor %} {% endif %} {% endfor %} Total {% capture DiscountGroup %}1{% endcapture %} {% capture DiscountTier %}1{% endcapture %} {% assign DiscountGroup = DiscountGroup | plus: 0 %} {% assign DiscountTier = DiscountTier | plus: 0 %} {% assign discount_amount = 0 %} {% for group in product.discounts_structure.groups %} {% if group.id == DiscountGroup %} {% for tier in group.tiers %} {% if tier.id == DiscountTier %} {% for discount in tier.discount %} {% if discount.min_quantity > variant.quantity %}{% break %}{% endif %} {% assign discount_amount = variant.quantity | times: discount.discount_amount | times: 100 %} {% endfor %} {% break %} {% endif %} {% endfor %} {% break %} {% endif %} {% endfor %} {{ variant.price | times: variant.quantity | minus: discount_amount | money | remove: }} {% if discount_amount > 0 %}

Plant spacing is based on the ultimate width of the plants. This figure is normally given as a range; for example, 3-5’. If you live in a cold climate and/or want plants to fill in more quickly, plan to space at the shorter end of the range. If you live in a warm climate, are on a limited budget, or are willing to wait longer for plants to touch, use the higher end of the range. Using the larger number is recommended when calculating distance from a building or structure. There’s really no such thing as “maximum spacing”: if you don’t want your plants to touch, you can space them as far apart as you’d like. All plant spacing is calculated on center, or in other words, the centers of the plants are spaced one half of their eventual width apart:

why is my ascot rainbow spurge plant falling over

Unless you are planting in a straight line, as you might for hedges or edging, space your plants in a staggered or zig-zag pattern for a more interesting and naturalistic look:

why is my ascot rainbow spurge plant falling over

Hand-picked at our greenhouse

Shipped to your door

Arrives as young plant

More Information Description With uniquely variegated foliage and flower-like bracts, ‘Ascot Rainbow’ spurge (or Euphorbia x martinii ) is an intriguing perennial for colorful patio containers or sunny garden beds. Narrow, grey-green foliage has bright yellow margins from spring to fall, but it really shines in the cooler months. In cool temperatures, the foliage picks up red, pink, and orange hues, creating a kaleidoscope of colors on each leaf. As if it weren’t already colorful enough, it boasts dark purple stems and variegated flower-like bracts in late spring. It’s the perfect plant for variegated plant collectors or any gardener that needs to add flair to their landscape! Spurges are shrub-like perennials that are easy to grow for gardeners of any level, as long as they’re planted in well-draining soils. It’s tolerant of heat, drought, and even poor soils, making it ideal for problematic or xeric sites. Since it’s resistant to deer, rabbits, and diseases, it takes very little (or no maintenance) to remain attractive all season long. Plant it in full sun in northern zones and part sun (with afternoon shade) in southern zones for the best performance. Caution: spurges are a relative of poinsettias, so they are also poisonous if ingested by humans or pets. Handle with gloves, as their sap may irritate the skin. Details

Tough-to-grow sites just got easier to fill! If you’re looking to design a rock garden, ideas for rock garden plants, and how to care for a rock garden, check out our colorful, fragrant, & textured favorites.

Euphorbia ‘Ascot Rainbow’ (Spurge) // Very USEFUL perennial with UNIQUE foliage and flowers

FAQ

How to prune ascot rainbow euphorbia?

The Art of Pruning Euphorbia ‘Ascot Rainbow’ First, suit up with gloves to avoid the sap’s nasty burn. Second, sterilize your tools—no one wants a plant infection. Third, identify dead or overgrown stems; these are your targets. Fourth, cut at a 45-degree angle just above a leaf node.

How often should you water spurge?

How often to water your Spurge. Spurge needs 0.8 cups of water every 12 days when it doesn’t get direct sunlight and is potted in a 5.0″ pot. Use our water calculator to personalize watering recommendations to your environment or download Greg for more advanced recommendations for all of your plants.

How do you look after Euphorbia ascot rainbow?

In warmer regions, it is best sited in part shade, avoiding afternoon sun. It prefers average, well-drained soil. ‘Ascot Rainbow’ typically does not need to be cut back after flowering. At the end of the season, it typically remains standing through the fall into early winter.

How do you transplant ascot rainbow euphorbia?

Gently coax your Euphorbia ‘Ascot Rainbow’ from its current pot. Loosen the soil around the edges and invert the pot, supporting the plant’s base. If it’s stubborn, tap the pot’s rim on a firm surface or use a knife to separate the root ball from the pot.

What is a ‘Ascot Rainbow’ spurge?

Never fear ‘Ascot Rainbow’ Spurge is here. Also known as Euphorbia martinii, this is a low growing evergreen subshrub (20 inches in height) that looks stunning in masses. This plant has an upright bushy habit with creamy green and white variegated leaves. The top of each growing tip has a tinge of magenta pink that gives off a tropical vibe.

How do you care for Ascot Rainbow spurge?

‘Ascot Rainbow’ spurge can be found in zones 5-9, growing happily in full sun to part shade, well-drained soil with moderate watering. Once established, it will handle drought conditions easily, like most euphorbias. Last year’s flower stalks can be cut back in early spring to encourage new, long-lasting blooms.

When does Ascot Rainbow spurge Bloom?

The bloom time or growing season of this plant is typically between July and September. The Ascot Rainbow Spurge prefers to grow under the full sun, particularly when grown in the cooler USDA zones. For the warmer zones, it grows optimally in partial shade. However, be sure to protect the plant from the harsh rays of the afternoon sun.

Can Ascot Rainbow spurge grow in shade?

The Ascot Rainbow Spurge prefers to grow under the full sun, particularly when grown in the cooler USDA zones. For the warmer zones, it grows optimally in partial shade. However, be sure to protect the plant from the harsh rays of the afternoon sun. Moreover, this plant grows well in USDA hardiness zone 5 to 9.

Leave a Comment