Scientific Name
Euphorbia milii 'Cristata'
Accepted Scientific Name
Euphorbia milii Des Moul.
Common Name(s)
Crested Crown of Thorns
Synonym(s)
Euphorbia milii f. cristata
Scientific Classification
Family: Euphorbiaceae
Subfamily: Euphorbioideae
Tribe: Euphorbieae
Subtribe: Euphorbiinae
Genus: Euphorbia
Description
Euphorbia milii 'Cristata' is an impressive succulent plant with woody, grayish-brown flattened branches with grey spines. The leaves measure up to 1.4 inches (3.5 cm) long and 0.6 inches (1.5 cm) wide and are found mainly on new growth. The spines are up to 1 inch (2.5 cm) long. Each specimen has a unique shape. Some growths are stable, but others tend to revert to normal growth.
The flowers are small, variably red, sometimes pink, yellow, or white. They are up to 0.5 inches (1.2 cm) wide and subtended by a pair of conspicuous petal-like bracts.
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zones 10a to 11b: from 30 °F (−1.1 °C) to 50 °F (+10 °C).
How to Grow and Care
Euphorbias are very easy to care for. These plants require a little pampering to become established, but once they are, they are self-sufficient. More die from too much care and watering than from neglect. Euphorbias need well-draining soil and lots of sunlight. They are not particular about soil pH but cannot tolerate wet soil. Unlike most succulents, Euphorbia does not handle long periods of drought well. It may need weekly watering during the summer. Water whenever the soil is dry several inches below the surface. Water deeply, but don't let them sit in wet soil, which can cause root rot. Add some organic matter or fertilizer to the planting hole. Feed with a half-strength fertilizer monthly if you are growing them in containers or your soil is poor.
These succulents can be grown from seed, but they can be difficult to germinate (or even find). They are usually propagated by cuttings. This can be tricky because of the exuding sap. Rooting hormone is recommended with Euphorbias. They tend to grow problem-free, but a few pests and diseases are to be alert for.
See more at How to Grow and Care for Euphorbia.
Origin
Euphorbia milii 'Cristata' is a form of Euphorbia milii selected for its mutated growth.
Links
- Back to genus Euphorbia
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
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