Crown of Throne plant

Description

The Crown of Thorns (Euphorbia milii) is a striking, spiny succulent known for its unique combination of thorny stems and vibrant, colorful flowers. Native to Madagascar, this plant is named for its thorny branches, which are reminiscent of the biblical crown of thorns worn by Jesus. It is a versatile plant, commonly grown both outdoors in warm climates and indoors as a potted houseplant.

Its thick, grayish-brown stems are covered in sharp, pointed spines that can grow up to an inch long, offering a natural defense against herbivores. The plant’s bright green, oval-shaped leaves cluster around the upper portions of the stems, while the true star of the plant is its showy flowers. These flowers are actually colorful bracts—modified leaves—that come in shades of red, pink, white, yellow, or orange, surrounding a tiny, inconspicuous flower in the center.

The Crown of Thorns is a drought-tolerant plant that thrives in bright, direct sunlight and well-draining, sandy soil. It is a popular choice for xeriscaping (low-water landscaping) and makes an excellent houseplant when placed near sunny windows. It requires minimal watering, with the soil needing to dry out between waterings to prevent root rot.

However, caution is needed when handling this plant. The spines can cause physical injury, and the plant’s milky sap is mildly toxic, capable of causing skin irritation and being harmful if ingested. Despite this, its resilience, long-lasting blooms, and unique appearance make it a beloved plant among gardeners and houseplant enthusiasts.