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Plant Profiles / Crown of thorns
Photos: Wikimedia Commons
Crown of thorns
Euphorbia milii · Christ plant
A spiny, woody succulent that flowers almost year-round with red, pink, yellow or white bracts.
Full sunLight
Every 1–2 weeksWater
EasyCare level
Care at a glance
Light
Full sun
ShadeFull sun
More sun means more flowers.
Water
Every 1–2 weeks
DryWet
Water when the top half of the mix is dry.
Humidity
Low
LowHigh
Dry air suits it.
Temperature
10–38°C (50–100°F)
CoolWarm
Frost tender.
Growth
Slow, shrubby
SlowFast
Grows 30–90 cm.
Soil
Cactus and succulent mix
LeanRich
Fast-draining mix.
Fertiliser
Monthly in summer
RarelyOften
Diluted fertiliser in the warm months.
Pet safety
Toxic
SafeToxic
Sap is toxic and irritating.
About this plant
From Madagascar, crown of thorns is tough and heat-loving. Its milky sap is irritating, so wear gloves when pruning.
Best spots
Sunny windowsills, warm balconies and coastal courtyards.
Plant facts
| Botanical name | Euphorbia milii |
| Family | Euphorbiaceae |
| Origin | Madagascar |
| Plant type | Succulent shrub |
| Mature size | 30–90 cm |
| Growth rate | Slow |
| Flowers | Colourful bracts most of the year |
| Toxicity | Toxic to pets |
| Propagation | Cuttings |
Seasonal care calendar
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Repot
Flowering
Prune
Fertilise
RepotFloweringPruneFertilise
Based on Southern Hemisphere seasons.
Troubleshooting
| Leaf drop | Cold or dry spell. |
| Few flowers | More sun. |
| Stem rot | Too wet. |
| Sap on skin | Wash off immediately. |
Common questions
Does it flower year-round?
Nearly, in warm sun.
Is it pet safe?
No.
Is it spiny?
Yes, very.
Can it go indoors?
Yes, in a sunny window.
