Euphorbia Milii (Crown of Thorns) Care

The Crown of Thorns is a leafy and thorny perennial shrub blooming year-round. This cactus-like succulent is a very common ornamental indoor plant due to its low maintenance requirements.

About this plant

Although commonly mistaken as a cactus, the Crown of Thorns is actually a Euphorbia. It is an evergreen shrub with numerous branches having green leaves and spines. The Crown of Thorns blooms clustered, inconspicuous flowers throughout the year. The plant is originated in Madagascar and now it is grown elsewhere in gardens and as a houseplant.

 

Tips for the caring of Crown of Thorns

This is probably the most suitable plant for careless people. This plant won’t mind if you forget to take its care for a long time. The Crown of Thorns needs little water so it is a very good choice for water-deficient areas. This plant is capable of surviving under extreme drought conditions. However, if the plant becomes too stressed to due to over or under watering, humidity or temperature fluctuation, it may quickly drop all of its leaves and stop blooming. However, the good news is that the plant recovers all such problems when little care is taken. Therefore, we will have to ensure minimum maintenance of this succulent to keep it leafy and flowering. Let's see in detail how to take good care of the Crown of Thorns:

Water Requirements

As it’s a succulent, it stores water in its thick spiny stems as well as in the leaves. The reserved water helps it to stay hydrated for a long time. You should water your plant once a week thoroughly. But make sure that the excess water drains perfectly through the potholes. If the root stays wet for a prolonged period then the fungal disease will rot the root. Moreover, over watering will result in leaf loss and blooming stoppage.

Therefore, always let the soil dry out at least one inch deep before watering again. And watering too infrequently will also entail leaf loss and cease of flowering. Extreme dryness compels it to go dormant.

Again, during the winter season or when the temperature drops below 32°C the plant may go to dormant or semi-dormant state. Therefore, water it once in a month during winter. But If you can irrigate in a controlled manner and keep the plant active then there is a chance of even richer blooming during the winter season!

So, Crown of Thorns is not altogether a forgiving succulent. It will not die very easily but often take away your sleep. To keep it active, healthy, and normal you must have to follow a steady watering schedule throughout spring, summer and fall. Remember, whether in an active or dormant state, never irrigate it until the top surface completely dries out.

This plant also takes moisture through its leaves. So misting the leaves on daily basis might help it to remain lively.

Lighting Requirements

The Crown Of Thorns grows and blooms exceptionally well in bright and direct sunlight. At least 3 to 4 hours of bright, direct sunlight per day is required. They can also endure partial shade but the growth and blooming will be unimpressive. When you are keeping it as a houseplant make sure to place it in the west or south-facing window for getting the maximum sunlight.

Potting & Soil

Always use sandy and well-drained soils. Do not use regular garden soil as it will improve leave growth but decrease flowering. Above all, the water will not discharge at all and the root will rot. Plant the Crown of Thorns in cactus potting mix. You can create your own cactus potting mix by mixing an equal potion of disinfected garden soil and coarse sand. The container material plus its size matters a lot. Choose a plastic container which is about an inch larger than the root ball. Much bigger pot will retain excess water which will be bad for the root. Again clay pots will retain a lot of moisture which could promote the root rot.

Cold Tolerance

The Crown of Thorns is not at all frost resistant. It can tolerate a temperature between 18 to 32°C. Temperature below 32°C makes the plant dormant. It must be moved indoors to ensure protection from extreme coldness

Propagation

This succulent can be propagated either from seeds or stem cutting. But as the former technique is much harder, you can easily rely on stem cutting. Select your preferred branches and cut them with a sharp knife. Wash the cut ends in cold water to get rid of the milky sap. Now lay the cuttings on a old newspaper for 2-3 days to callus the cut ends. When the wounds are totally healed thrust the callus ends of your cuttings into the well-drained wet sand. Water lighly on regular basis to keep the soil moist. Store the newly planted cuttings in a warm place with bright indirct sunlight.

Toxicity

As it is an Euphorbia all parts of the Crown of Thorns are toxic to humans and animals. The most toxic part is the sticky latex which is rleased from broken leaves, stem or roots of the Crown of Thorns. The milky sap can cause skin and eye  irritation. Wash off the sap immediately after it contacts your skin. If it gets into your eyes rinse plenty of water to flush out the toxin. Do not rub your eyes as the sap is capable of temporarily blind you. So, see a doctor as as early as it possible. If ingested the toxicity may range from to nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea

Quick Facts

• Common Names: Crown of Thorns, Christ Plant, Christ Thorn, Christ's Thorn
• Category: Succulent
• Scientific Name:  Euphorbia Milii
• Synonyms: Euphorbia milii var. splendens, Euphorbia bojeri,, Euphorbia splendens var. bojeri, Euphorbia breonii, Euphorbia bojeri var. mucronulata, Euphorbia , Euphorbia splendens, Acalypha bojeri
• Family: Euphorbiaceae
• Genus: Euphorbia
• Origin:  Madagascar
• Habitat: Bush and forest habitats
• Life Span:  Parennial
• Growth Rate: Slow
• Growing Season:
• Blooming Time: Year-round (in ideal growing conditions)
• Flower Color:  Red, yellow, white, pink, and multi-colored
• Fruits: 1 seeded capsule-shapped fruits
• Dormant Time: In harsh conditions, such as extreme cold and dryness
• Height: 3 - 6 ft. (outdoors) 2 ft. (indoors)
• Width: NA
• Exposure: Full, direct sunlight.
• Maintenance: Low
• Drought Resistant: Yes
• Water Needs: Low
• Frost Tolerant: No
• Toxicity: Very Toxic
• Humidity: Low to medium
• Temperature: 65-90°F (18-32°C)
• Propagation: Seed/stem cutting
• Planting Time: Spring

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Pencil Cactus (Euphorbia Tirucalli) Care

This aesthetically appealing succulent is a widely adored ornamental house plant across the globe. The Pencil Cactus is unusual in structure and very vibrant in colour.

About this plant

Never get confused by its name. The Pencil Cactus is not at all a cactus. Rather it’s a cactus-like succulent from the Euphorbia genus. It’s readily distinguishable since unlike cactus the subject succulent contains a white milky sap. It is a shrub or small tree in a candelabra pattern. It contains pencil-like cylindrical branches which are smooth, and green. This plant also has small leaves which fall very quickly. It also blooms small flowers.

 

Tips for the caring of Pencil Cactus

Just like all other succulents the Pencil Cactus also tolerates lots of negligence. You don’t have to think of it every time, just leave it alone in its place and it will do just fine. Alternatively, too much caring might speed up its demise! They like to be ignored! But if would like to enjoy its full-fledged beauty then you should care for it occasionally. Let us see how we may keep this amazing plant fresh, healthy and above all alive:

Water Requirements

This plant is highly drought tolerant. But like all other Euphorbia, the Pencil Cactus cannot endure long-term drought. Therefore, you will need to water every 2 or 3 weeks to keep it hydrated. Irrigation in this manner will be applicable for spring and summer season only.

During the winter the Pencil Cactus goes into the dormant state, so you don’t need to water unless the plant looks too dehydrated or pale.

But it is always wise to check soil moisture to avoid over or under watering. This plant will die from root rot if you overwater. Contrariwise, the stems or branches will appear dried up and flaccid if you under water.

Again, when kept indoors the plant will not receive enough sunlight, so naturally, you don’t have to water much.

Lighting Requirements

The dearth of adequate sunlight for a prolonged period might be disastrous for this plant. It can tolerate partial shade and grows well in the full sun. Regular sunlight will ensure its fresh and lively appearance. If you are planning to keep it indoors then ensure its placement near the window.

Potting & Soil

The Pencil cactus likes well-drained, dry and sandy soil. Soil with less nutrients will be a good choice. While planting in the container you may use cactus or succulent potting mix. You can easily make your potting mix by mixing regular disinfected garden soil with coarse sand in the ratio of 1:2. Instead of clay pot try to use a plastic container as it will retain less moisture and help to keep the soil arid.

Cold Tolerance

This succulent cannot tolerate frost. It can sustain a low temperature of around 30 °F. The ideal temperature for it to thrive well is 65°F-70°F. It can also grow in low humidity if the soil does not retain much moisture.

Propagation

The Pencil Cactus could be grown from seeds. But typically they are propagated from cuttings which is much easier than the former technique. For propagation cut suitable stems and left them aside for 2-3 days for the recovery of the wounds or until it has formed a callus on the cut end. After that just plant the cuttings in well-drained potting mix and keep away from direct sunburn.  The roots will start growing within 2-3 weeks and will be fully grown within 4-6 weeks.

Toxicity

The milky white sap from Euphorbia tirucalli is toxic to humans and animals. Skin contact causes severe irritation, redness, and burning sensation. Redness, pain, swelling and even blindness may occur when gets into the eyes. If ingested, pencil cactus can cause burns to the mouth, lips, tongue and vomiting and diarrhea. Therefore, considering its toxicity it should be kept out of the reach of children plus pets.

Quick Facts

• Common Name: Pencil Cactus, Pencil Plant, Pencil Tree, Indian-tree spurge, African Milk Bush, Finger Euphorbia, Finger Tree, Firestick Plants, Milk Bush, Milk Hedge, Naked Lady, Pencil Bush, Pencil Euphorbia, Petroleum Plant, Rubber Euphorbia, Rubber Hedge Euphorbia, Rubber Hedge Plant, Sticks on Fire, Fire Stick Plant
• Category: Succulent
• Scientific Name: Euphorbia tirucalli
• Synonyms: NA
• Family: Euphorbiaceae
• Genus: Euphorbia
• Origin:  Africa
• Habitat: Dry bushland thickets, open woodland and grassland
• Life Span:  Perennial
• Growth Rate: Fast
• Growing Season: Spring
• Blooming Time: Late spring and early summer
• Flower Color:  Green/yellow
• Fruits: NA
• Dormant Time: Winter
• Height:  15 to 30 feet
• Width: 3 to 6 feet
• Exposure: Bright and indirect light
• Maintenance: Low
• Drought Tolerance:  Short term
• Water Needs: Minimal
• Frost Tolerant: No
• Toxicity: Toxic
• Humidity: Dry to medium
• Temperature: Around 30 °F or -1.1 °C
• Propagation: Seeds/Stem cuttings
• Planting Time:  Spring or early summer

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Monstrose Apple Cactus Care

Monstrose apple cactus is a moderately fast-growing ornamental plant. This has an intriguingly different look due to its irregular tree-like branching structure with a cylindrical stem. And it becomes a great piece of beauty when grown up properly.

I am a cacti lover and always trying to enrich my collection. These plants are not popular in my country and thus it always takes lots of efforts to find an uncommon one. All you can find here is golden barrel cacti! Last Friday I made an errand to the famous nursery in our capital. Fortunately, the quest was successful. I found the perfect and ugliest cactus of my life.

It looked so exotic plus ghostly that my wife was not ready to take it home. Moreover, the gardener hiked its price unreasonably seeing my too much interest for it! How rude! However, I was stubbornly determined about buying it. I started typical bargaining with the seller to fix a reasonable price. But he seemed to be very firm to sell it for a high price. I even tried to convince him that none will buy this ugly cactus, so he should sell it to me before it dies. But he was futile to me and started counting stars looking at the bright sunny sky! Can you believe it?

Anyway, then I tried to locate my wife who was busy finding floral plants. When found her I couldn’t resist my dismay and told her that I failed to purchase the lovely and ugly cactus due to high price. She smiled because I looked so miserable. However, at last, she broke her hard stance and told me that she would like to have a chat with the seller. She went alone and returned with the plant by paying half the price that the moron demanded from me! Sometimes women are more capable than men, I guess.

Anyway, who cares, I was able to return home with the new member. But like every time, I was unaware of its name or genus. So, resorted to the internet and got its name and different information regarding taking care of it. And below I am going to share these information for your ready reference.

About this plant

Monstrose apple cactus is a very sought-after cactus for many cactus enthusiasts. It is notorious for its multi-branched candelabra shape and pointed spines. It grows mainly in southern humid to subhumid forests. Over time this cactus grows numerous large stems. It also blooms large tubular white nocturnal flowers. Monstrose apple cactus is also cultivated for its red apple-like fruits which have a taste similar to dragon fruit.

When grown in the ground, this cactus just grows pretty fast and looks like a big tree with branches. But when confined in the container, its growth rate is very slow.

 

 

Tips for the caring of Monstrose Apple Cactus

Can’t resist saying that cacti grow really well when they are deprived of regular care. Our subject cactus is not an exception in this respect. Monstrose Apple Cactus requires very little care. However, this plant won’t survive or thrive well if the following requirements are not met. Let’s learn in detail about caring this particular cactus properly:

Water Requirements

It is a very drought tolerant cactus. Watering thoroughly twice in a week will be fine. However, if the weather is too warm and the soil is very quick draining then you should irrigate the cactus once in a week. But you will need to follow a different strategy if you like to grow it in a container. In such a case, inspect the soil dryness regularly and water whenever the soil loses adequate moisture.

Water regularly as per the above instruction through the early spring to the late summer, which is its growing season. The plant is dormant during the winter so it must be kept as dry as it is possible. During this state, add only a bit of water if the plant’s body starts getting too dehydrated.

Lighting Requirements

Monstrose Apple Cactus grows well under the direct sunlight. Dramatically speaking, it is a worshipper of sunlight! However, when kept as an indoor plant it can grow under partial sunlight beside the window. But, as mentioned earlier, you can’t expect a fast growth rate in such an instance. But do not put your newly planted cactus under the direct sunlight all in a sudden to avoid sunburn. Always give it some time to adapt to the condition.

Potting & Soil

It likes dryness, so it won’t be happy if the water is accumulated around its roots.  If it stands around water for a prolonged period then root rotting will occur. Therefore, to ensure its regular growth and sound health the substrate must fulfill certain criteria.

The cactus must be planted in well-drained sandy soil. Alternatively, the use of ½ of regular disinfected garden soil mixed with ½ of crushed gravel or coarse sand will also be fine.

While choosing containers try to opt the plastic ones as they will retain less moisture and ensure dryness of the soil. But the container must have adequate holes for easy water discharge.

The tub size doesn’t matter; cacti are comfortable growing root bounded. But I’ll have to repeat, the plant will remain in miniature shape.

Cold Tolerance

Monstrose Apple Cactus can withstand a temperature between 20° to 30°F (-7° to -1°C). If planted in a container then it would be wise to shift it indoors to protect from the frost. The young or miniature version of Monstrose Apple Cactus is not at all frost tolerant. The young plants in the outdoor must be given extra protection against frost attack.

Propagation

This cactus can be propagated either from seed or stem cuttings. But propagating from seed is much harder than the cuttings method. While propagating from cuttings, leave the cuttings for a week or two to dry/heal the wounds before placing them in peat-based compost. For the first few years take good care of the plant which includes proper irrigation and protection from frost attack and sunburn.

Toxicity

Monstrose Apple Cactus and its fruit are not toxic either to humans or animals.

Quick Facts

• Common Name: Monstrose Apple Cactus
• Category: Cactus/ succulent
• Scientific Name: Cereus Peruvianus Monstrose (?)
• Synonyms: Synonyms: Cereus peruvianus fa. monstrose ‘Rojo’, Andes Organ Pipe, Hedge Cactus, Queen of the Night, Hildmann’s Cereus, Cereus hildmannianus, Cereus uruguayanus, Cereus repandus, Stenocereus peruvianus
• Family: Cactaceae
• Genus: Cereus
• Origin: NA
• Life Span: Perennial
• Growth Rate: Slower
• Growing Season: Early spring to late summer
• Blooming Time: Spring
• Flower Color: White
• Fruits: Produces edible fruits
• Dormant Time: Winter
• Height: 15-20’
• Width: 10-15’
• Exposure: Full to partial sun
• Drought Tolerant: Yes
• Water Needs: Very low
• Frost Tolerant: No (until well-established)
• Toxicity: None
• Humidity: Prefers warm temperature
• Temperature: Prefers dry climate
• Propagation: Seed or stem cuttings
• Planting Time: Spring / Summer

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Euphorbia Stenoclada (Silver Thicket) Cactus Care

This evergreen cactus-like succulent has impressive silvery grey limbs with long pointed spikes. When grown properly, the leafless shrub is turned into a great ornamental masterpiece. Silver Thicket is definitely a must-have plant for the most cactus enthusiasts.

Who doesn’t want to be a proud owner of a curiously different looking house plant? But it is not always easy to find one. Again, the harder part is to keep it alive. In such cases, cacti or succulents could be a great choice since they require relatively less care. They continue to grow and thrive under occasional maintenance and watering.

But if you like to amaze others then you will be going to need something different. While searching for such an amazing indoor plant I was able to locate a curiously gorgeous succulent that resembles a cactus. The gardener told me that may be it is a type of cactus but he doesn’t know its name. Who cares for a name when the plant itself is unique and beautiful?  So I bought it without asking any further questions.

It was already potted and I was concerned about its safety. But I couldn't take good care of it without knowing its name and category. So I started Googling, and after putting much effort I was able to figure out its name.

About this plant

The plant is commonly known as Silver Thicket and it originates from Madagascar. It chiefly grows in subtropical or tropical dry forests. Moreover, this plant is also found in subtropical dry rocky areas. Its scientific name is Euphorbia stenoclada.

 

Tips for the caring of Silver Thicket

Well, cacti grow well when they are left carelessly. That very truth is also applicable for this plant as well. As it falls under Euphorbia genus, it will grow without needing any special care. However, you can’t either ignore your plant altogether. Let’s see what you can do to keep it alive and healthier:

Water Requirements

This succulent is drought resistant. Water should not be allowed strangled around its roots. Since it’s a forest cactus, it is not long-term drought resistant.  It will need a bit more watering compared to other desert cacti, especially during its growing seasons, i.e., the summer. However, limit the watering twice in a month. But if you are planning for a thorough watering then restrict it to once in a month.

But the watering should be infrequent and partial soaking. Be sure to inspect the soil moisture before watering. Water only when the soil looks dry several inches below the surface. Quite bothersome, huh!

This plant is dormant in winter so keep it completely dry at or around 10°C.

Lighting Requirements

This plant needs lots of sunlight to develop. However, as it can grow in partial shade as well, it can be used as an indoor plant. But remember, this plant cannot withstand direct sunlight at a very young age. So to avoid sunburn it should not be suddenly placed under direct sunlight. Lastly, keeping it permanently under shade the shade might cause a complete stoppage of its growth.

Potting & Soil

Silver Thicket must be planted in well-drained soil. Even frequent raining will not kill it if water does not remain stagnant around its roots. Long –term water accumulation will rot its root. A fusion of 1/2 of coarse sand and 1/2 of disinfected regular garden soil is ideal for this plant.

While choosing pots try plastic tubs as they will capture less moisture and the soil will remain much dryer. But make sure to choose a pot having lots of holes for easy water discharge.

The tub size doesn’t matter; succulents are comfortable growing root bounded.

Cold Tolerance

It is not a frost or freeze tolerant plant. So keep it indoor during the freezing days of winter.

Toxicity

Just like other members of the genus, this plant also releases a milky sap when physically damaged or cut. The sap, which is called latex is toxic and may cause skin irritation or allergic reaction. And temporary blindness may occur if it gets inside the eyes. Ingestion of the latex could also entail poisonous reaction. So seeing a doctor is necessary after confronting any of such circumstances.

Did you know?

This plant blooms flowers only when planted directly in the soil. You can’t expect to have flowers from a potted Silver Thicket.

Quick Facts

• Common Name: Silver Thicket
• Category: Shrub/cactus/ succulent
• Scientific Name: Euphorbia stenoclada
• Synonym: Euphorbia cirsioides, Euphorbia insulae-europae
• Family: Euphorbiaceae
• Genus: Euphorbia
• Origin: Madagascar
• Evergreen: Yes
• Growth Rate: Moderately fast
• Growing Season: Summer
• Bloom Time: Spring
• Flower Color: Red
• Dormant Time: Winter
• Height: 6-12 feet
• Width: 4-6 feet
• Exposure: Full Sun, partial shade
• Drought Tolerant: Yes
• Water Needs: Low
• Frost Tolerant: No
• Toxicity: Poisonous
• Humidity: Prefers dry environment
• Temperature: Prefers warm environment

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