Radiating like a living starburst across the ground, this mesmerising Mediterranean spurge creates a striking architectural presence with its snake-like stems clothed in succulent, powder-blue leaves.

Euphorbia myrsinites puts on a spectacular show in early spring when its prostrate stems, each extending up to 30cm (12in), are crowned with generous clusters of acid-yellow bracts that seem to glow against the waxy, blue-green foliage.

This low-growing evergreen perennial excels in rock gardens, gravel beds, and at the front of sunny borders, where its sculptural form provides year-round interest and contrasts beautifully with deep-green or silver-leaved companions.

Perfect for challenging, well-drained sites, this drought-tolerant plant brings both structure and an exotic touch to contemporary and Mediterranean-style gardens, with its 10cm (4in) wide flowering heads creating a particularly arresting display when backlit by spring sunshine.