Crown of thorns (Euphorbia lomi)
Care, watering, light and tips for Crown of thorns on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Euphorbiaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Full sun
- Temperature: 10–38 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Crown of thorns
Euphorbia milii (commonly known as "Crown of Thorns") is a thorny succulent shrub, native to Madagascar, renowned for its bright, colorful bracts surrounding tiny true flowers. Polysean hybrids are cultivated varieties bred for enhanced color and prolific blooming, creating a vibrant display that looks stunning in rock gardens, pots, or as a bright indoor plant. Its woody, spiny stems contrast with its delicate flowers, offering a unique visual appeal.
Native range
Madagascar
Care tips
Requires full sun or very bright light for optimal blooming; insufficient light will reduce flower production. Water moderately when the soil is completely dry, drastically reducing watering in winter to prevent root rot. Use a well-draining substrate formulated for cacti and succulents. Avoid overwatering, as it is the most common and fatal mistake for this plant.
How to save a dying Crown of thorns
- Warning signs
- Yellow/dropping leaves, soft stems, black spots. Root rot from overwatering.
- First aid
- Remove plant, check roots. Cut rot, apply fungicide, repot in dry, well-draining soil.
- What kills it
- Overwatering is fatal. Cannot tolerate soggy soil or heavy substrates. Lack of light or intense cold.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if you act fast. Needs sun, warmth, and moderate watering, only when soil is dry.