Euphorbia milii , commonly lie with as the Crown of Thorns , belong to the genus Euphorbia in the family Euphorbiaceae . This genus is one of the largest among flowering flora , encompassing over 2,000 specie . The species name “ milii ” honors Baron Milius , once the Governor of Réunion , where the plant was first noted by phytologist . Like all Euphorbias , it exhibits a singular flower structure where what appear to be a flower is actually a cyathium , a specialized blossoming surrounded by colourful bract that mime petal .
The Crown of Thorns is aboriginal to Madagascar , where it spring up in the dry , rocky , and scrubby environments of the island ’s sou'-west region . This habitat reflects its drouth - resistant nature , as Madagascar ’s mood can be quite desiccate . The industrial plant ’s version to such conditions includes its succulent stems and leaf , which store water , and its power to expand in poor , well - drain stain .
Historically , Euphorbia milii has been wall by religious import . It ’s known as “ Christ ’s Thorn ” or “ Crown of Thorns ” because of a legend suggest that the crown worn by Jesus Christ at his crucifixion was made from this plant life ’s thorny branches . Although this is probable apocryphal , the name has deposit due to the plant ’s spiny show . introduce to Europe in the 19th century , it was civilize in glasshouse before becoming a popular ornamental plant worldwide due to its loose care and attractive blooms .
In damage of polish , Euphorbia milii is well - suited for USDA Hardiness Zones 9 - 11 . In these zones , the plant can be grow outdoors year - circular , relish the warmth and occasional moisture but avoid frost , which it does not tolerate well . In cool zones , it is often grown as a houseplant or in containers that can be moved indoors during cold months . The plant prosper in bright , indirect light or partial sun , requiring minimum tearing due to its lush nature , making it an fantabulous choice for those search for lowly - sustainment plants . However , in areas where temperatures drop below the mid-50s Fahrenheit ( around 12 ° degree centigrade ) , tribute from the cold or indoor cultivation is necessary to forbid damage or decease to the flora .
Characteristics
Euphorbia milii , unremarkably known as the Crown of Thorns , is a striking succulent bush known for its drought tolerance and ornamental value . This industrial plant typically grows to a height of 1 to 2 meters when mature , with a straggling , shaggy form . Its stems are thick and woody , boast numerous stout , sharp thorns which give the plant its common name . The leave are small , ellipse to oval , and succulent , but they can be thin , peculiarly under drought atmospheric condition or when the plant sharpen energy on flowering .
The blossom of Euphorbia milii are unique ; they consist of lilliputian , true flowers circumvent by coloured bracts that fare in refinement of crimson , pink , yellow-bellied , orangish , or white , depending on the cultivar . These bract are often mistaken for petals , but they serve to pull pollinator . The bloom meter can be quite extensive , often blooming class - circle in optimal condition , making it a favourite for continuous color in gardens or as houseplants .
Cultivation
Propagation
Stem Cuttings :
Leaf Cuttings :
Layering :
Seed Propagation :
