Botanical Name: Euphorbia milii
Common Names: Crown of Thorns, Christ Thorn, Christ Plant, Red Crown of Thorns
📌 Product Description
Euphorbia milii – commonly known as Crown of Thorns – is a hardy, sun-loving flowering succulent shrub known for its bright red bracts and distinctive thorny stems. This classic red form produces clusters of small true flowers surrounded by vivid, long-lasting red bracts that provide colour for extended periods throughout the warmer months.
Extremely resilient and drought-tolerant once established, this variety is ideal for South African water-wise gardens and sunny patios. Its tough nature and continuous flowering make it a reliable, low-maintenance feature plant.
⚠️ Note: Milky sap may irritate skin and eyes. Handle with care.
📏 Size When Fully Grown
Height: 60 cm – 1.2 m
Spread: 50 cm – 1 m
Growth Habit: Thorny, semi-woody succulent shrub
Growth Rate: Moderate
🌱 Best Growing Conditions
Light: Full sun (essential for strong flowering)
Soil: Well-draining sandy or succulent mix
Water:
Feeding: Light feeding during spring and summer with a balanced fertiliser
Maintenance:
🌦️ Planting & Growing Season (South Africa)
Best Planting Time: Spring to early summer
Active Growing Season: Spring and summer
Flowering Season: Spring through summer (often near year-round in warm coastal areas)
Climate Suitability: Ideal for warm inland regions and coastal climates
Frost Tolerance: Sensitive to frost; protect below 5°C
🌼 Additional Benefits
✔ Long flowering season
✔ Drought-tolerant
✔ Low-maintenance
✔ Excellent container plant
✔ Suitable for water-wise landscaping
✔ Thorny stems provide natural security barrier
🌿 Ideal Uses
✔ Patio pots
✔ Balcony gardens
✔ Water-wise landscapes
✔ Sunny borders
✔ Security planting
✔ Feature plant in decorative containers


