Bountiful Gardens

The Resilient Beauty: Euphorbia milii

The Crown of Thorns is an upright, woody succulent that can grow into a substantial shrub over time. It is a slow grower, making it a perfect long-term companion for a sunny windowsill. Despite its intimidating thorns, it is one of the most rewarding and low-maintenance flowering plants you can own.

Suggested Placement in the Home

• The "Sun-Drenched" Sill: This plant craves light. A South-facing window is its absolute favorite spot. Without enough sun, it will stop blooming and start to look sparse.

• The Kitchen Nook: It handles the drier air of most homes perfectly, making it a great choice for a sunny kitchen window where it won't be bumped into (those thorns are sharp!).

• Out of Reach: Because of its thorns and toxic sap, place it on a high shelf or in a spot where pets and small children won't accidentally make contact with it.

Care & Maintenance

• The "Dry Out" Rule: Since it is a succulent, it stores water in its thick stems. It is much better to underwater this plant than to overwater it. Always wait for the soil to dry out significantly.

• Handling with Care: When repotting or pruning, wear thick gardening gloves. The thorns are no joke, and like all Euphorbias, it contains a milky white sap that can irritate the skin.

• Pruning for Shape: If your plant gets too "leggy" or tall, you can snip the tops off in the spring. This encourages it to branch out and become bushier.

• Leaf Cleaning: Since you can't easily wipe the thorny stems, a gentle misting or a light dusting with a soft-bristled paintbrush can keep the leaves looking fresh.

The Essential Tip for Beginners

The "Sap Stop": If you prune your Crown of Thorns and the white sap starts dripping, you can stop the "bleeding" by dabbing the cut with a bit of cold water. This helps the sap coagulate and seal the wound quickly, protecting the plant and your floor!