Also known as Christ Thorn · Christ's-Plant · Christ's-Thorn
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Crown-of-Thorns (Euphorbia milii) is a spiny, succulent shrub known for its vibrant, long-lasting flowers, making it a popular ornamental plant.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full sun to bright indirect light
100% intensity
Needs at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight daily for best flowering and growth.
Allow soil to dry out completely between waterings
25% intensity
Prefers infrequent but thorough watering, with excellent drainage.
Well-draining, Gritty, Sandy, Loam
50% intensity
Warm
75% intensity
Prefers temperatures between 18-25°C. Protect from frost; avoid temperatures below 10°C.
Sparingly during growing season
25% intensity
A balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer applied monthly from spring to fall is sufficient.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 3/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 3/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Irritant, Toxic if ingested
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water thoroughly when the soil is completely dry, typically every 2-4 weeks. Reduce watering significantly during winter dormancy.
Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot; overwatering is the most common cause of decline for Euphorbia milii.
Prune to maintain shape, remove dead or damaged stems, and encourage bushier growth. Make cuts just above a leaf node. Wear gloves as the sap is an irritant. Pruning is best done in spring after flowering.
Propagate from stem cuttings taken in spring or early summer. Allow cuttings to callus over for a few days before planting in well-draining soil mix. Roots typically form within 4-6 weeks.
Repot every 2-3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound, preferably in spring. Use a well-draining potting mix, such as a cactus or succulent blend. Choose a pot only slightly larger than the previous one.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Crown-Of-Thorns (Euphorbia milii)
Where Crown-Of-Thorns (Euphorbia milii) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Euphorbiaceae |
| Genus | Euphorbia |
| Species | Euphorbia milii |
Similar in genus Euphorbia
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
