Euphorbia milii f. cristata
Accepted Scientific Name
Euphorbia milii Des Moul.
Common Names
Crested Crown of Thorns
Scientific Classification
Family: Euphorbiaceae
Subfamily: Euphorbioideae
Tribe: Euphorbieae
Subtribe: Euphorbiinae
Genus: Euphorbia
Description
Euphorbia milii f. cristata is a crested form of Euphorbia milii. It is an outstanding, succulent plant with grayish-brown, crested branches with grey spines up to 1 inch (2.5 cm) long.
The leaves are found mainly on new growth and are up to 1.4 inches (3.5 cm) long and 0.6 inch (1.5 cm) wide. The flowers are small, variably red (pink, yellow or white), up to 0.5 inch (1.2 cm) wide and subtended by a pair of conspicuous petal-like bracts.
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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. In fact, 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 they cannot tolerant 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. If you are growing them in containers or your soil is poor, feed with a half-strength fertilizer monthly.
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 there are a few pests and diseases to be alert for… – See more at: How to Grow and Care for Euphorbia
Origin
Euphorbia milii f. lutea is a crested form of Euphorbia milii.
Links
Back to genus Euphorbia
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