Crown of thorns - Euphorbia milii (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images, Toxic)

Crown of thorns

Also known as: Christ thorn

The Euphorbia milii is commonly known as the crown of thorns or Christ thorn, as it is believed to the plant associated with the crown of thorns that was worn by Christ. It needs to stay above 10 ℃ with full sun.

Scientific classification

Species

Crown of thorns (Euphorbia milii)

Nances, spurges, willows and allies

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Toxic to Humans

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Succulent, Shrub

Plant Type

All year round

Bloom Time

90 cm to 1.8 m

Plant Height

45 cm to 90 cm

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

1.2 cm

Flower Size

Green

Fruit Color

Red, Yellow, Pink, White, Gold

Flower Color

Green, Silver

Stem Color

Non-dormant

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter

Growth Season

Images of Crown of thorns

Distribution of Crown of thorns

Distribution Map

Crown of thorns is native to Madagascar, where its native habitat includes dry thickets and rocky areas. It has been introduced in India, Southeast Asia, Bolivia, Central America, and Florida. It is widely cultivated as an ornamental or houseplant in warm climates. Crown of thorns is listed as invasive in Anguilla, and its dense thickets sometimes become invasive in native countries.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Variety of bush, Forest habitats

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Garden Use

Crown of thorns is an evergreen shrub commonly found in gardens of a warmer climate. It is prized for its attractively colored leaves that exemplify its bright green foliage. Its relatively short height makes it suitable for low hedges and borders. Crown of thorns is good for rock or Mediterranean gardens. Suggested companion plants include Kangaroo Paw or Blue Fescue to make a strong color contrast.

Symbolism

Stubborn and faithful, gentle and loyal, brave and elegant

Interesting Facts

The crown of thorns is probably the smallest flower, not as brilliant as the azalea, not as pure and elegant as the narcissus, not as beautiful and noble as the peony, but it lives decently. Many flowers and trees wither in the winter while the crown of thorns is not defeated by frost. It is still pleasant to the eye with tender and lovely flowers. Shaped like a butterfly, the small flower is made of two petals, and then form a small cluster, green in summer and red in winter. Placing several pots of them at home will make you feel like spring is always with you.

Name Story

Crown of thorns: This plant is a small yet woody shrub that gets its name from its sharp and half-inch long thorns that cover its main stems. Some people claim that the branches were cut to make the crown by the Romans to put it on Jesus. Hence, it's called the crown of thorns.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Crown of thorns, including the following common varieties :

Crown of thorns 'Vulcanus'

Toxicity

Crown of thorns is highly poisonous. Ingestion causes moderate toxicity, eye and skin irritation, temporary blindness, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Crown of thorns poses a risk to cats and dogs causing gastrointestinal issues, drooling, lethargy, and more severe symptoms. Immediate veterinary care is critical for pets. Children are often poisoned due to crown of thorns's bright, inviting flowers.

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Quickly Identify Crown of thorns

Fleshy, bright green leaves with smooth margins, appearing vibrant

Stems armed with thick, black spines, exhibiting a 5-6 sided shape

Greenish inflorescences with red or yellow bracts, blooming on long peduncles

Tiny, green, unisexual flowers enclosed in a 5-lobed involucre

Leaves typically 2 inches (5 cm) long, evergreen with wedge-shaped bases

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Care Guide for Crown of thorns

Every 3 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Potting Mix, Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Crown of thorns excels in dry conditions with excellent drought tolerance. In cultivation, it requires well-draining soil and minimal watering every three weeks, allowing soil to dry out. Typically grown indoors, it thrives in stable temperatures, adapting its succulent leaves for efficient water storage.

Fertilize: Crown of thorns thrives with succulent fertilizer during active growth seasons, applying quarterly. Dilute for delicate roots and avoid winter feeding. Use gloves due to sap irritation. Precise application prevents root burn and supports healthy growth and blooming.

Propagation: Crown of thorns is a perennial succulent shrub from Madagascar, featuring spiny stems and bright flowers. Propagate via 3-6 inch stem cuttings with leaves or nodes. Let cuttings dry for a day, then plant in well-draining soil. Bright, indirect light aids root development.

Repotting: Repot crown of thorns every 2-3 years in spring using a pot 1-2 inches wider with drainage holes. Water minimally after repotting and place in bright, indirect light to support recovery. Crown of thorns requires consistent, cautious after-care for optimal growth.

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