Crown Of Thorns

(Euphorbia milii)

Crown Of Thorns (Euphorbia milii)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Euphorbia milii, commonly known as Crown Of Thorns, is a woody succulent subshrub or shrub native to the dry forests and scrub areas of Madagascar. It typically grows to 1.8 m (5 ft 11 in) tall with densely spiny stems. The species is well-adapted to hot, sunny, and dry conditions, reflecting its native habitat’s ecology. The small flowers are surrounded by a pair of conspicuous petal-like bracts that are variably red, pink, or white, and can be up to 12 mm (0.47 in) broad. Euphorbia milii is renowned for its year-round flowering, with a peak between spring and summer, and its thorns alongside deep red bracts symbolize the crown of thorns worn by Jesus during the crucifixion.

This plant is valued for its drought tolerance and the striking contrast between its thorns and vibrant bracts. It is commonly used as an ornamental houseplant and can thrive outdoors in warmer climates. Euphorbia milii requires full sun and well-drained soil, with low to medium water needs. It is sensitive to cold and should be protected from temperatures below 10 °C (50 °F). When grown under glass, such as in a greenhouse, it should receive full sun, and in summer, it can be moved outside to a sheltered spot free from frost. Both the species and the variety E. milii var. splendens have received the Royal Horticultural Society’s Award of Garden Merit, indicating their excellence for garden use. Propagation is typically done through cuttings.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Shrub
  • Height: 3-6 feet
  • Width: 1.5-3 feet
  • Growth Rate: Slow
  • Flower Color: Pink, Red, White, Yellow
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Winter
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Low, Medium
  • Drainage: Fast, Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Groundcover, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Potted Plant, Rabbit Resistant, Rock Garden, Showy Flowers, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

Dry forests and scrub areas of Madagascar

Other Names

Common Names: Christ’s Plant , Christ Thorn , Christ Plant , Chrustusdorn , Corona De Cristo , Kristi Törnekrona , Martírios , Coroa-De-Cristo , Coroa-De-Espinho , Bem-Casados

Scientific Names: Euphorbia milii , Euphorbia milii var. breonii , Euphorbia breonii , Euphorbia milii subsp. breonii , Euphorbia splendens subsp. breonii , Euphorbia splendens var. breonii

GBIF Accepted Name: Euphorbia milii Des Moul.