Euphorbia milii
Crown of Thorns
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Crown of Thorns (Euphorbia milii) - Description
Euphorbia milii (crown of thorns, Christ plant, Christ thorn) is a species of flowering plant in the spurge family Euphorbiaciae, native Madagascar. The species name commemorates Baron Milius, once Governor of Réunion, who introduced the species to France in 1821. It is suspected that the species was introduced to the Middle East in ancient times, and legend associates it with the crown of thorns worn by Christ.
Crown of Thorns (Euphorbia milii) - Blooming
All Euphorbia have very small flowers with one female flower clustered by several male flowers. The showy "flowers" of Euphorbia are colorful bracts beneath the true flowers.
Crown of Thorns (Euphorbia milii) - Growth
An extremely varied genus, Euphorbia contains annuals, biennials, perennials, subshrubs, trees, and succulents. Most species do well in full sun and light shade, but some species may have other requirements.
Crown of Thorns (Euphorbia milii) - Planting
Propagate perennials by division or by seeds. Sow seeds of annuals indoors 6-8 weeks before the last spring frost. For succulents, sow seeds when ripe at 59-69F (15-20C). Can also propagate by rooting complete or sections of stems in spring. Shrubs and tree species can be broadcasted by rooting stem-tip cuttings in spring or early summer.
Crown of Thorns (Euphorbia milii) - Pest
Nematodes, spider mites, mealybugs, and aphids can cause serious damage. Other issues include fungal and bacterial diseases and virus problems.
Crown of Thorns (Euphorbia milii) - Interesting facts
Crown of Thorns is so named due to its large number of short thorns bunched along the primary axis of the stem and because of the Biblical story of Jesus' crucifixion. Although the stems of these plants look as though they would be a good nominee for the actual plant used during the crucifixion, this species of plant is native to Madagascar and was most likely not growing in the Mediterranean region during the 1st century.
Crown of Thorns (Euphorbia milii) - Soil and irrigation
Most perennials prefer loose, poor to average, well-drained soil. Different species have different requirements.
