Water
Water regularly during the growing season, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Reduce watering significantly in winter, especially for potted plants, to prevent root rot.
Ensure good drainage to avoid waterlogging.
Also known as Christ's-Thorn · Crown Of Thorns · Crown-Of-Thorns
Jerusalem Thorn (Paliurus spina) is a thorny, deciduous shrub or small tree native to the Mediterranean region, known for its distinctive spine-tipped branches and drough
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Prefers at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily for best flowering and growth.
Moderate
50% intensity
Allow soil to dry between waterings; reduce in winter.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers warm temperatures but can tolerate some frost once established.
Low
25% intensity
Fertilize sparingly in spring/summer; avoid over-fertilizing.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water regularly during the growing season, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Reduce watering significantly in winter, especially for potted plants, to prevent root rot.
Ensure good drainage to avoid waterlogging.
Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins to shape the plant and remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches. Jerusalem Thorn tolerates heavy pruning well, which can be used to manage its size and encourage bushier growth.
Propagate by seeds sown in spring or through semi-hardwood cuttings taken in summer. Seeds may require stratification. Cuttings should be rooted in a well-draining medium with bottom heat for best results.
Both methods require patience.
Repot young plants annually in spring, and mature plants every 2-3 years as needed. Use a well-draining potting mix. Ensure the new pot is only slightly larger than the current one to avoid overwatering issues.
Refreshing the topsoil is often sufficient for established plants.
Identify plants like this with ePlant AI
Snap a photo to get care tips and match similar species on the go.
Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Jerusalem Thorn (Paliurus spina)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Family | Rhamnaceae |
| Genus | Paliurus |
| Species | Paliurus spina |
Similar in genus Paliurus
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data