Crown of Thorns

(Euphorbia Milii - Euphporbia Spendens)

~ By Betty G. ~

Although I love all sorts of succulents, especially all sorts of euphorbias, I decided to write about my favorite one of all, the Crown of Thorns. I figured what better time to choose it than the month of Easter!

This mighty succulent is a native to Madagascar, so it definitely loves tons of warmth and although it can survive in cool climes, it rarely thrives. However, as with most euphorbias, the crown of thorns is a hearty evergreen that can recover from minor frost damage.

As its name suggests, the stems of the plant are woody in nature and it is "armed" with long, sharp thorns. The leaves are sparse, oval in shape and appear only around the ends of its branches. However, its "glory" so to speak, arrives in the form of colorful bracts or flowers that put on a show nearly year round.

The most popular variety has deep red bracts, but others include such colors as yellow, orange and pink and size ranges from 1 foot to 4 feet in height.

The Crown of Thorns is one of the easiest plants to grow and maintain. As mentioned earlier, it does very well in warm climes and it even loves the seashore.

Just remember to plant it in porous soil and place it in full sun or partial shade. You can even grow it indoors as long as it is in an area where it receives good light. Water when dry then sit back watch the show begin.

I am hoping you give my favorite a try, but if you find that the Crown of Thorns is not for you, there's so many other euphorbias at your local nursery that just might fit your bill. These range from the chameleon to the various spurges, from the copper plant and snow-on-the-mountain to the ever-popular poinsettia.

In closing, I can honestly say that I have never met a euhporbia I did not like and I am hoping you find it to be true for you as well.

         

All ideas, concepts, and content including text, content and graphics are owned by
The Garden of Friendship and its members unless otherwise noted and should not be
taken or duplicated without expressed written consent. © 2000 and beyond.
The Garden of Friendship