Crown of Thorns
euphorbia milii
Also known as: ["Christ Plant","Corona de Cristo"]
Overview
A succulent plant with thick stems and thorns, known for its long-lasting flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","drought tolerant","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Euphorbiaceae |
| Genus: | Euphorbia |
| Botanical Name: | Euphorbia milii |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, sunny location or outdoor garden in frost-free areas
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining cactus or succulent mix with added perlite or sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Every 2–3 years or as needed to maintain shape and health.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright, direct sunlight for 6–8 hours daily; adjust for intense summer sun to prevent scorching.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate new plants to direct sun gradually; protect from harsh midday sun; place indoors near a south-facing window if outdoors is too intense.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; provide shade during peak summer hours; ensure no obstructions to sunlight.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, every 2–3 weeks in winter
Allow soil to dry between waterings; water less in winter; ensure good drainage to avoid root rot.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or gritty potting mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid overwatering; use a mix with good aeration.
Temperature
Prefers 70–85°F (21–29°C); tolerates 50–60°F (10–15°C) but growth slows below 60°F.
Protect from frost; avoid drafts; maintain consistent temperatures for best growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer, none in fall and winter
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid over-fertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings; leaf cuttings can also be used but are slower.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy stem cutting.
- Let it callus for a few days.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep warm and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; keep soil lightly moist but not waterlogged.
Medium
Well-draining mix like cactus soil or perlite and sand.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, rooting hormone, pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Allow cuttings to callus before planting; use sterile tools to prevent disease; maintain humidity for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems just above a leaf node or junction; remove dead or weak growth.
Pruning Plan
Prune to control size, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or damaged stems.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves (to protect from sap), clean blades.
Checklist
Wear gloves; sterilize tools; prune in spring; remove dead growth; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Check root bound status; use fresh soil; ensure drainage; water sparingly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water deeply at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; avoid wetting foliage; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot; increase in hot, dry periods.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; use a cactus mix as a base; avoid heavy, water-retentive soils.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, stunted growth, bud drop, or leaf drop in extreme cold or heat.
Cold Stress
Growth slows or halts; leaves may turn yellow or drop; risk of root rot if soil stays wet.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; reduce watering; provide a heat source if necessary; ensure good air circulation.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or leaf drop; may drop buds if too hot and dry.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); stop in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are particularly sensitive to the irritant compounds in Euphorbia milii. Ingestion can lead to severe gastrointestinal upset, while skin contact may cause irritation and discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested or if sap comes into contact with skin or eyes
Dogs
ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Euphorbia milii can cause gastrointestinal distress and irritation due to the plant's toxic compounds. Skin contact may lead to localized irritation and discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested or if sap comes into contact with skin or eyes
Humans
ToxicEuphorbia milii contains diterpenoid phorbol esters and other irritant compounds that can cause significant irritation and inflammation upon contact with mucous membranes or ingestion. These compounds disrupt cellular functions and can lead to severe physiological responses.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested or if sap comes into contact with skin or eyes
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Euphorbia milii toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water Crown of Thorns?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Q: Does Crown of Thorns flower year-round?
A: Yes, it can bloom continuously with proper care and bright light.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Euphorbiaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
