Complete Care Guide:
Meet the Crown of Thorns: A Tough Plant with Beautiful Blooms
The Crown of Thorns (Euphorbia milii) is a remarkable succulent that produces colorful flowers almost year-round. Despite its dramatic name and thorny stems, this plant is surprisingly easy to care for and makes a wonderful addition to any sunny windowsill.
Light: Sun Worshipper Extraordinaire
This plant lives for bright light! Place it in your sunniest south-facing window where it can bask in direct sunlight for 6-8 hours daily. Unlike many flowering plants that need rest periods, the Crown of Thorns will bloom continuously when given enough light. If your plant stops flowering or starts dropping leaves, it’s likely begging for more sunshine.
Watering: The “Soak and Dry” Method
As a desert native, this plant is built for drought:
- Water only when the soil is completely dry
- During active growth (spring-fall), water thoroughly until it runs from drainage holes
- In winter, reduce watering to once every 3-4 weeks
- When in doubt, wait another week – it’s much better to underwater than overwater
Soil and Repotting: Good Drainage is Essential
- Use a fast-draining cactus/succulent mix
- Regular potting soil holds too much moisture and can cause root rot
- Repot every 2-3 years in spring, moving to a container only slightly larger than the root ball
- Terra cotta pots are ideal as they help soil dry evenly
Temperature and Environment:
- Keep in temperatures above 50°F (10°C)
- Ideal growing range: 65-85°F
- Move indoors before nighttime temperatures drop below 50°F
- Can tolerate household humidity levels without issues
Feeding for Fantastic Flowers
- During growing season, use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer monthly
- For enhanced blooming, switch to a bloom booster formula higher in phosphorus
- Stop fertilizing in winter when growth slows
Important Safety Note:
- The milky sap can cause skin irritation – wear gloves when handling
- Keep away from children and pets as all parts are toxic if ingested
- Wash hands thoroughly after contact with the plant
Pruning and Maintenance:
- Wear thick gloves to protect from thorns when handling
- Prune in spring to control size or shape
- Remove any dead or damaged stems as needed
- The plant will naturally drop older leaves – this is normal
Easy Propagation:
Create new plants from stem cuttings:
- Take 4-6 inch cuttings in spring
- Let the cut end callus over for 24 hours
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional)
- Plant in cactus mix and water lightly
- New roots will form in 4-8 weeks
Troubleshooting Common Issues:
- Yellow leaves: Usually indicates overwatering
- No flowers: Needs more direct sunlight
- Leaf drop: Can be caused by overwatering or sudden temperature changes
- Soft stems: Sign of root rot from too much moisture
The Crown of Thorns is a wonderfully low-maintenance plant that rewards you with continuous colorful blooms. Just provide plenty of sunshine, go easy on the water, and enjoy the show! This resilient plant can thrive for decades with minimal care, making it a perfect choice for both beginner and experienced gardeners alike.
