Description
NOT ALLOWED in Western Australia
A striking perennial known for its vivid orange tones and strong architectural presence, Euphorbia griffithii ‘Dixter’ brings bold colour and texture to Australian gardens. Celebrated for its fiery summer display, it forms an upright clump of narrow green foliage that emerges flushed with rich red in spring before turning deep green through the warmer months.
From late spring to early summer, the plant produces glowing orange-red bracts with yellow centres, creating an eye-catching contrast against the stems. As the season cools, the foliage often shifts to warm autumnal tones, adding extended visual interest.
Growth & Habit
- Height: 70–90 cm
- Width: 60–80 cm
- Habit: Upright, clumping, slowly spreading rhizomatous perennial.
Best Growing Conditions (Australia)
- Climate: Performs well in cool to mild temperate regions of Australia; tolerates light frost. Best in areas with a distinct winter chill.
- Position: Full sun to part shade; colour is best in full sun.
- Soil: Prefers well-drained, moderately fertile soil. Avoid waterlogged positions, especially during winter.
- Watering: Drought-tolerant once established; appreciates regular water during the hottest months but dislikes saturated soils.
- Mulching: Light mulch to maintain moisture and suppress weeds.
Seasonal Interest
- Spring: Red-tinged new growth.
- Early–Mid Summer: Vibrant orange bracts; peak display.
- Autumn: Warm foliage colours before winter dormancy.
- Winter: Plant dies back, returning strongly in spring.
Uses in the Garden
- Excellent for mixed borders, cottage gardens, and perennial plantings.
- Strong colour accent among greens and blues.
- Pairs beautifully with salvias, ornamental grasses, kniphofia, and hardy perennials.
Care & Maintenance
- Cut spent stems back to ground level in late winter before new growth appears.
- Wear gloves when pruning—Euphorbia sap can be irritating to skin and eyes.
- Mulch annually and divide clumps every few years to maintain vigour.
Noteworthy
- Cultivar named after the famous Great Dixter Garden in the UK.
- Highly ornamental and reliable, with standout colour for Australian cool-climate gardens.