How to Prevent Destruction of the Euphorbia Milii Plant

If you look closely at the Euphorbia milii plant you will understand why it is commonly known as the "Crown of Thorns." With thornier branches than an average rose bush, working with the Euphorbia milii requires wearing thick gloves. The Euphorbia milii is a succulent, native to Madagascar. Although in nature it is a climber, in cultivation it is grown as a shrub. Euphorbia milii does best when grown within its United States Department of Agriculture Hardiness Zones 8 through 11. While it is a tough plant, without proper care it can be destroyed.

Things You'll Need

• Thick gloves
• Compost or coarse sand
• 5-10-5 fertilizer
• Insecticidal Soap

Instructions

1. Grow the Euphorbia milii in a well-drained soil. Amendments such as compost and coarse sand help loosen garden soil and prevent water from pooling at the plant’s roots. With the proper soil, the Euphorbia can tolerate regular watering, which helps it retain its foliage.

2. Plant the Euphorbia in an area that receives sun all day if you live in cooler regions within the USDA hardiness zones. In areas with intense sunlight, place the plant where it will receive some shade in the afternoon. If you are an urban dweller, avoid planting the Euphorbia under or close to a light standard or evening security lights. The intense light all night will disrupt its flowering cycle. (Refs 2)

3. Water the Euphorbia milii, when the top 1 inch of soil is dry. Although drought-tolerant, the plant has a tendency to drop its leaves and regular watering helps prevent this. Water the soil, not the foliage, to prevent rot.

4. Fertilize the Euphorbia milii in the spring and the fall. Apply 5-10-5 fertilizer, to the soil, at the rate suggested on the label.

5. Check the plant periodically for signs of pests. Aphids, scale and mealybugs, while not common Euphorbia pests, will attack a weak plant. Use insecticidal soap, according to label directions, at the first sign of an infestation.

Tips & Warnings

• All parts of Euphorbia milii are poisonous if ingested. The sap may cause dermatitis in sensitive individuals.

References

• Floridata: Euphorbia milii
• Tropica Nursery: Euphorbia Milii Cultivation
• Texas Cooperative Extension: Euphorbia Milii, Crown Of Thorns