The Euphorbia milli plant, also known as the crown of thorns due to its beautiful flowers, is believed to resemble the crown worn by Jesus during his crucifixion, hence another name for it is Christ Thorn. The plant is named after the Greek physician Euphorbus and Baron Milius, the governor of the French island of Reunion.
Euphorbia milli is native to the Americas, Africa, and Madagascar, but it is now found in many parts of the world. According to stories, the plant was brought from Israel to India by Jews living in Kerala. Despite its resemblance to a cactus, it is not a cactus or a succulent, even though many nurseries might mistakenly label it as such.
Euphorbia milli, also known as Crown of thorns, is a hardy plant that can thrive in harsh conditions without much care. However, growing it from seeds can be challenging; it’s easier to propagate from cuttings. This woody shrub flowers year-round, with more blooms in the winter and an abundance of flowers when it receives plenty of sunlight. The flowers come in various colors such as red, pink, yellow, and white, with each flower having two petals, which can appear to look like four petals due to their intertwining structure. Even when not in bloom, the plant has its own unique beauty, making it a great addition to offices and homes in small pots.
Suitable Soil for Euphorbia Milli:
Euphorbia milli thrives in loose, well-draining soil. You can use a mixture of vermicompost, dung manure, or leaf compost (30%), coarse yellow soil (60%), and common soil (10%) in a 10-inch pot. Also, add 5-10 grains of DAP fertilizer. Mix a small amount of fungicide and insecticide with the soil mixture.
Pot Selection:
Choose a pot that is at least 6 inches in size. Clay pots are recommended as plastic pots can get damaged in the hot sun. Ensure that the pot has drainage holes at the bottom to prevent water stagnation, which can harm the plant.
Seedlings from Cuttings:
Propagation from cuttings is simple. Use a sharp knife or secateurs to trim extra branches of the plant. If new branches are growing or if the existing branches are too long, cut 6 to 8 inches from the top, including the leaves. Apply aloe vera on the cut after trimming. After two days, plant the cutting in the soil mixture. Keep it in a place with indirect light. The leaves may fall, but after 5 days, lightly water the roots. Gradually expose the plant to sunlight and water it lightly after 3-4 days. After about a month and a half, the cuttings will grow into full-fledged plants.
Pots and plants can also be purchased online.
Sunlight:
Euphorbia milli needs plenty of bright light to thrive and produce flowers. Keeping the plant in direct sunlight will promote flower growth. It is best to place them on the roof, where they can receive adequate sunlight without being affected by rain.
Irrigation System:
After planting, water the tree once a week during the dry season. Be cautious of overwatering, as it can cause the roots to rot.
Fertilizer Application:
The tree benefits from nitrogen or urea fertilizers, but excessive amounts are not necessary. Sunlight serves as extra fertilizer. In case you want to apply fertilizer, mix 10 grains of DAP fertilizer in two liters of water and apply it to the leaves and roots every 15 days in the afternoon.
Control of Insects and Fungi:
Insect attacks are uncommon, but be mindful of millibugs, spiders, and whiteflies. Apply pesticides as needed if these pests are present. Fungi are the main threat to this plant. Insufficient light and airflow can lead to mildew infections, requiring the application of fungicide.
Propagation from Seed:
The flowers of the tree contain seeds, but not all of them will develop. Cover the seeds with polythene to prevent them from falling off. Plant the seeds in euphorbia millis soil only when they turn black. Keep the soil moist after planting until the seedlings are half an inch tall. After 2 months, transplant the seedlings separately to obtain new-colored euphorbia millis.
My Euphorbia Millis:
My favorite flower is the Euphorbia millis. I have planted this tree on my balcony, and it does not require much care. During the winter season, it only needs to be watered once a month, while in the summer, I water it every 5 to 7 days. The boldness and bright color of this flower has enhanced the beauty of my balcony.
Cautions:
- If the roots start to rot, it is important to immediately cut off the entire affected area and apply aloe vera on the affected area. Repeat the application of aloe vera after 2 to 3 days.
- Avoid watering the plants in strong sunlight. Water only when the soil is cold.
- Additionally, when the branches, leaves, or flowers of the plant are torn off, a white poisonous substance is released. The debris continues to ooze from the injured part for a long time, and this substance is toxic. It can cause burning and discomfort on the skin upon contact. Moreover, the thorns of the Euphorbia millis are also poisonous. If the thorn punctures the skin, it can cause pain and discomfort.
