Comprehensive Guide for Indoor Nurturing of Crown of Thorns Plant
The Crown of Thorns, scientifically known as Euphorbia milii, is a captivating houseplant that adds a touch of exotic charm to any indoor space. Here's a simple guide to help you cultivate and maintain this fascinating plant successfully.
With a height ranging between 1.5 to 3.0 feet (0.50 to 0.90 metres) for smaller varieties and up to 6.0 feet (1.8 metres) for taller ones, the Crown of Thorns is a fairly easy plant to grow. It thrives best in full sun and requires a well-drained soil mix, such as a soilless mix or a cactus and succulent mix.
When it comes to watering, water the Crown of Thorns when the soil surface is dry, typically about once a week. In winter, allow the soil to dry out down to two or three inches (5.0 to 7.5 cm) between waterings. It's essential to ensure the soil is very well-drained to prevent standing water, which can lead to root rot.
The ideal temperature range for this plant is between 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit (15 to 24 Celsius). As it is not frost-tolerant, keep it indoors where temperatures stay above 50°F (10°C).
Pruning is necessary to keep the Crown of Thorns smaller when grown as a houseplant and to maintain its shape. Wear gloves while pruning, as the plant's sap can irritate the skin.
Fertilizing should be done sparingly during the growing season if desired, but avoid fertilizing in winter. Repotting every few years to a slightly bigger container is recommended.
It's important to note that the Crown of Thorns is toxic and should be kept out of reach of pets and children. Common pests that may affect this plant include mites, scale, mealybugs, thrips, root rot, and fungal diseases. Overwatering, standing water, too much humidity, or too little airflow can also cause these issues.
There are several varieties of Crown of Thorns that can be grown indoors, such as Pink Cadillac, Gabriella, Crème Supreme, Brush Fire, and Zephyr. Pruning is necessary to keep these varieties smaller, and they can even be kept in a smaller container to maintain a small size and still produce flowers.
With proper care and attention, the Crown of Thorns can thrive and add a touch of tropical beauty to your indoor space. For more detailed advice, consult experts or gardening resources for specific guidance tailored to your growing conditions.
[1] Gardening Know How [2] HGTV [4] Garden Myths [5] SF Gate
