🌺 Crown of Thorns (Euphorbia milii) – Hardy, Colorful, and Full of Character
Description
The Crown of Thorns (Euphorbia milii), also known as Christ Plant or Christ’s Thorn, is a resilient, evergreen-to-deciduous shrub celebrated for its bright bracts and distinctive form. Native to Madagascar, this unique plant features clusters of small greenish flowers surrounded by long-lasting bracts in vibrant red, pink, yellow, or cream.
Its thorn-covered stems add bold texture and architectural interest, while its colorful blooms can appear year-round under the right conditions. The Crown of Thorns has a fascinating history—its common name comes from the belief that its stems may have been used in the biblical crown of thorns.
Compact and easy to grow, it’s perfect for sunny windows, warm patios, or as a striking container plant. Outdoors in warm climates, it can grow up to 5–6 feet tall; indoors, it stays more compact at around 2–3 feet.
USDA Growing Zones
Growing Tips
-
Light: Needs bright, direct light for best flowering—6+ hours daily is ideal.
-
Water: Allow the top 1–2 inches of soil to dry before watering; drought-tolerant once established.
-
Soil: Well-draining cactus or succulent potting mix.
-
Temperature: Prefers 65–85°F; protect from frost.
-
Humidity: Adapts well to average indoor humidity.
-
Fertilizer: Feed every 2–3 weeks during the growing season with a balanced or bloom-boosting fertilizer.
-
Pruning: Trim to maintain shape and remove dead or damaged branches; wear gloves to avoid sap contact.
Why You’ll Love the Crown of Thorns
-
Blooms year-round in ideal conditions
-
Thrives in bright, sunny spots with minimal care
-
Adds striking texture with thorny stems and glossy leaves
-
Highly drought-tolerant and adaptable
-
Makes a bold statement as a houseplant or patio feature
What to Expect When Ordering Live Plants
-
Plants are carefully packaged to protect leaves and stems during transit.
-
Minor cosmetic blemishes or soil displacement may occur during shipping; this will not affect plant health.
-
Flower color may vary slightly depending on season and growing conditions.