How to Care for Crown of Thorns Plants
The crown of thorns plant, also known as the Christ plant, is as unique as it is popular. It is a succulent that originates from Madagascar and comes from the plant genus Euphorbia. With its woody spiny stems, succulent leaves and year round blooming capability it is a perfect low maintenance plant. In most temperate regions it's best to plant the crown of thorns in a pot, so that it can be brought inside during the winter or kept inside year round. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Crown of thorns plant
- Plant pot with a hole in the bottom
- Cactus potting mix or all purpose potting mix
- Water
- Liquid fertilizer
- Sunlight
- Humidifier (if necessary)
Instructions
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Plant your crown of thorns in potting soil that drains well and retains water. Cactus potting mix works best with this succulent plant. If you use regular potting soil add a little sand to it.
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Use a plant pot that has a hole in the bottom. This will allow good drainage, which will keep the roots of your plant from getting too wet and rotting.
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Place the plant where it will get plenty of filtered or full sunlight.
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Water the soil and allow it become barely moist between watering periods. Water less during the winter season; this is when the plant rests. Use warm water and avoid getting water on the stems or leaves, as they may rot if they get too wet.
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Fertilize bi-weekly during spring and throughout the fall season and monthly during winter. Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to 50% of full strength.
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Keep the plant in normal room temperature. Use a humidifier to add humidity to a dry room. Kept outdoors, this plant thrives in temperatures from 60 to 95 degrees F with average humidity.
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Tips & Warnings
Avoid using rainwater, which can sometimes be acidic.
The white milky sap of the crown of thorns is poisonous and can cause irritation to the mouth, eyes, and skin. Take care when handling this plant and wash your hands afterward. Wear gloves when pruning or re-planting it.
Eating any part of the crown of thorns can cause vomiting, nausea, and/or diarrhea.
