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The crown of thorns plant is a striking houseplant known for its vibrant green leaves and small flowers surrounded by colorful bracts in shades of pink, red, yellow, or white. Legend has it that this plant, with its flexible stems, was used to create the thorny crown worn by Jesus during the crucifixion. In its natural habitat, this plant grows into a large shrub with a sprawling shape. While it thrives year-round in USDA Hardiness Zones 10 and above, in other regions it is commonly kept as a houseplant. The crown of thorns plant stores water in its stems, making it a low-maintenance option for forgetful gardeners.
As a shrub, the crown of thorns blooms throughout the year, but when kept indoors, it typically flowers from late winter to fall, adding a burst of color during the dreary winter months. Several hybrid varieties have been developed to grow in a more upright and compact manner. However, as its name implies, the plant is covered in sharp spines, making it unsuitable for households with curious children or pets.
Here are some tips for caring for a crown of thorns houseplant:
**Temperature:** Indoors, maintain average temperatures between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. When moving outdoors during summer, gradually expose the plant to full sun to prevent sunburn. Bring it back inside before temperatures dip below the 30s.
**Humidity:** Thriving in low-humidity environments, the crown of thorns is well-suited for indoor conditions, especially in winter.
**Soil:** Ensure well-draining soil, such as cactus mix or potting soil with added perlite, sand, or gravel for improved drainage.
**Fertilizer:** Apply a balanced, all-purpose houseplant fertilizer at half-strength during spring and summer to prevent excessive growth and encourage blooming.
**Sunlight:** Provide ample sunlight by placing the plant near a sunny window or under a grow light indoor. Outdoors, it requires at least six hours of direct sunlight, with some shade in hot climates.
**Common Issues:** Crown of thorns plants are relatively pest-resistant, but monitor for mealybugs, spider mites, or thrips. Due to its thorns and sap, exercise caution around children and pets. The plant’s characteristics also make it unappealing to deer and rabbits.
By following these simple care guidelines, you can enjoy the beauty of a crown of thorns plant in your home.
Regrettably, this captivatingly exotic plant, along with all members of the Euphorbia family, poses a toxic threat to pets. If your furry friend has a tendency to nibble, it’s advisable to refrain from cultivating this plant as its sap can trigger vomiting, drooling, and even corneal ulcers if it comes into contact with the eyes.
Contemplating whether to prune a Crown of Thorns plant? While maintaining its shape through pruning is feasible, it is imperative to don gloves due to the presence of thorns and a milky, adhesive sap that could potentially cause skin irritation among those with sensitivities. Furthermore, this sap has the capability to induce pain and transient blindness if it enters the eye! To avoid gumming up pruners, opt for a sharp knife for a more convenient cleaning process.
As Crown of Thorns plants tend to become leggy and lose lower foliage over time, it is recommended to propagate new plants every few years. The propagation process is relatively straightforward – remember to wear protective gloves and either take a stem cutting or utilize pruned pieces to initiate new growth. To prevent the sap from oozing, dip the cut ends in cold water or powdered horticultural charcoal. Allow the cuttings to desiccate for a few days before planting them in coarse potting mix to facilitate root growth. Maintain slightly moist soil and provide bright, indirect light for optimal conditions. Typically, rooting should occur within several months.
Connect with House Beautiful on Instagram and TikTok for more inspiration and tips. For those seeking to enhance their home bar, explore 15 captivating gifts that will surely delight cocktail enthusiasts. Additionally, discover 32 low light indoor plants that thrive in the darkest corners of your home, as well as a curated selection of the 50 best paint colors to elevate your living room decor.
