Euphorbia milii "Crown of Thorns"

Plant name: Crown of Thorns

Scientific name: Euphorbia milii

Plant description:
Euphorbia milii, commonly known as Crown of Thorns, is a woody, succulent shrub valued for its long-lasting bracts and durable structure. This drought-tolerant plant develops thick, thorn-covered stems and maintains a compact, upright habit. It is widely grown as a container plant and performs well in bright indoor settings or warm outdoor climates. Its ability to bloom for extended periods under the right conditions makes it a dependable flowering succulent.

Flower description:
The showy portion of the plant consists of colorful bracts that surround small, true flowers at the center. Bract colors range from red and pink to white, coral, and yellow, depending on the cultivar. Blooming can occur throughout much of the year when provided with adequate light and warmth.

Leaf description:
Leaves are oval to oblong, medium green, and smooth in texture. They appear primarily near the stem tips, while lower portions of the plant display its characteristic spines. Foliage may thin during periods of stress but regrows with improved conditions.

Deciduous or evergreen:
Evergreen in suitable climates and when grown indoors, though partial leaf drop may occur under stress.

USDA grow zones:
USDA Zones 9–11 outdoors; widely grown as a houseplant in cooler regions.

Mature height and width:
Typically reaches 2–3 feet tall and 1–2 feet wide, depending on growing conditions and pruning.

Landscape uses:
Suitable for containers, bright indoor spaces, succulent gardens, and dry landscape designs. Its compact structure and extended bloom time make it useful for patios, entryways, and sunny windowsills.

Native range:
Native to Madagascar.

Sun exposure:
Performs best in full sun to very bright light. Strong light encourages consistent flowering and compact growth. Insufficient light reduces bloom production and may cause stretching.

Water requirements:
Requires well-drained soil and moderate watering. Allow soil to dry between waterings. Overwatering is the most common cause of decline and can lead to root rot. Reduce watering during cooler months when growth slows.

Pests and problems:
May attract mealybugs, spider mites, or scale insects, especially indoors. Poor drainage can lead to root rot. The plant produces a milky sap that can irritate skin and eyes; handle with care.

Heat and sun tolerance: Cold tolerance:
Handles heat and direct sun well when properly acclimated. Sensitive to frost and prolonged cold exposure. Temperatures below 40°F can cause damage or leaf drop.

Growing tips:
Plant in a gritty, fast-draining succulent mix to prevent excess moisture around the roots. Position in the brightest available location to promote steady flowering. Avoid excessive fertilization, which can reduce bloom production and lead to weak growth. Prune lightly to shape the plant and encourage branching. Consistent light and controlled watering support a compact form and extended bloom cycle.

---SHIPPING NOTICE PLEASE READ BEFORE PURCHASING LIVE PLANTS!---

 We WILL NOT refund the purchase of or the shipping cost of live plants purchased with the intent to be shipped to states that do not authorize importing live plants or to states with restrictions! Purchases to these states will be held for 30 days for pick-up at our Slidell, Louisiana store and the shipping cost associated with these purchases will be held for the care of the plant while waiting to be picked up. All sales are final. If the plant(s) purchased are not picked up within 30 days from the date of order, these items will be returned to our sales inventory and you WILL NOT be refunded. Thank you for understanding these policies.

Due to regulations, certain states have restrictions on importing plants. Please review the list below to ensure you're not attempting to order any restricted plants in your area.

**Important Note:** We do not ship any plants outside the U.S.

State-Specific Restrictions - We ARE NOT responsible for any plant(s) that are not listed in these restrictions. Purchaser bears all responsibility for making sure the plant(s) they desire to purchase are not banned from being imported to the shipping state:

Arizona: Juglans spp.  

California: Castanea spp., Juglans spp., Pinus spp., Quercus spp.  

Colorado: Some counties restrict Prunus spp. Please verify your local county regulations.  

Florida: Castanea spp., Cornus spp., Quercus spp., Cornus mas 

Georgia: Vaccinium spp.

Hawaii: Pinus spp. 

Idaho: Humulus lupulus, Mentha spp., Vitis spp.

Indiana: Fragraria spp., Rosa spp. 

Kansas: Juglans spp.

Michigan: Abies spp., Vaccinium spp.

Montana: Pinus spp.

Nevada: Allium spp.

Mentha spp. 

New Jersey: Rosa spp.  

New York: Vitis spp.  

Oregon: Allium spp., Castanea spp., Corylus spp., Humulus lupulus, Quercus spp., Sambucus nigra, Ulmus spp., Vaccinium spp., Vitis spp.

Texas: Juglans spp. 

Washington: Allium spp., Castanea spp., Corylus spp., Humulus lupulus, Vaccinium spp., Vitis spp.  

Wisconsin: Abies spp., Pinus spp., Picea spp., Mentha spp. 

Additionally, we cannot ship plants in soil medium to the following states: AK, AL, AR, AZ, CA, HI, ID, KS, MS, MT, ND, NM, NV, OK, OR, SD, TX, UT, WA.