Christ Plant

Euphorbia milii (yoo-FOR-bee-ah MIL-ee-eye)

Family: Euphorbiaceae Unknown Shrub (3-15 ft)

Crown of thorns is a deciduous or evergreen, perennial shrub with bright green leaves and prickly stems. The tiny, insignificant flowers are cradled within long-lasting, brightly colored bracts of red, pink or white. In its country of origin (Madagascar), the plant will grow to 5 or 6 feet tall; however, in the United States, it typically grows to 3 feet tall, or under 2 feet when grown as a houseplant. Crown of thorns is a member of the spurge family (Euphorbiaceae). The specific epithet, milii , honors the Governor of the Island of Bourbon, Baron Milius. He introduced this species to France in 1821. Crown of thorns grows best in dry to medium moisture, well-drained soils in full sun. It does not like wet, cold soils or temperatures below 35 degrees F. It is an easy-to-grow indoor plant that prefers a sunny location in soil-based potting mix. If grown outside in hot summer climates, provide the plant with midday shade and moderate moisture for better flower bloom. You can propagate the plant from stem cuttings, but let the sap dry before placing the cutting in a growing medium. Cyclical leaf drop is normal, but messy, and precedes the plant's resting season (usually winter). The flowers will bloom throughout the growing season. The peduncle (inflorescence stem) is sticky and sometimes traps gnats, but there is no evidence that this plant is carnivorous. Bract size varies tremendously, with growers in Thailand selecting for very large, colorful bracts. This plant is easily propagated and shared, but named cultivars are seldom available in the trade. The prickly stems are dangerous to inattentive gardeners, children and pets. The plant is often used as a specimen plant for interiors with high light or as annual outdoor plant. In warmer climates, this plant can be used outdoors as a specimen, low hedge, border plant, or in a rock garden. Diseases, Insects, and Other Plant Problems: No known serious pests or diseases. As with most indoor plants, potential disease pests include leaf spots, stem and root rots and botrytis blight. Potential insect pests include scale, mealybug, thrips and mites. Wear protective gloves when handling this plant to prevent skin and eye irritation from the sap. Keep this plant out of reach of small children and pets. VIDEO Created by Laura Barth for "Houseplants, Succulents, and Cacti," a plant identification course developed in partnership with Longwood Gardens. More information on Euphorbia .

Source: NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox ↗ NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox, 63 attributes.