Crown of Thorns-orange/red

The Crown of Thorns, specifically the orange/red variety of Euphorbia milii, is a particularly vibrant and attractive cultivar of this popular succulent plant. Native to Madagascar, it's cherished for its striking appearance, characterized by bright, orange to red bracts that add a splash of vivid color to the plant.

This variety typically grows to about 1 to 3 feet in height and spreads 1 to 2 feet. It has thick, fleshy stems covered with sharp, protruding spines. The leaves are small, green, and oval-shaped, although they may drop off in less than ideal conditions.

The most visually striking aspect of the orange/red Crown of Thorns is its bracts, which are brightly colored in shades of orange to red. These colorful bracts surround the small, true flowers of the plant, creating a long-lasting and showy display. The bracts can appear throughout the year, with peak blooming often occurring in brighter light conditions.

Euphorbia milii prefers full sun to partial shade and thrives in well-draining soil. It is a drought-tolerant plant, requiring minimal watering. Overwatering should be avoided, as it can lead to root rot.

In cultivation, the orange/red Crown of Thorns is a popular choice for rock gardens, cactus gardens, and as a container plant, thanks to its vibrant color and unique appearance. It can add an exotic touch to both indoor and outdoor settings.

Overall, the orange/red Crown of Thorns is a low-maintenance and visually striking plant, perfect for adding a pop of color and interest to any garden or home. Its bright bracts, combined with its spiny, architectural form, make it a favorite among succulent enthusiasts and gardeners looking for a drought-tolerant yet decorative plant.

Three Timbers Installation Guide (Feel Free to Follow): Crown of Thorns - Orange/Red

Planting Guide:

• Location: Full sun (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal blooming)
• Soil: Well-drained, sandy or loamy soil (slightly acidic to neutral soil preferred)
• Spacing: Space plants 2-3 feet apart to allow for optimal growth and blooming
• Planting Depth: Plant at the same depth as the root ball, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil surface
• Support: Crown of Thorns (Orange/Red) grows upright and does not require staking, but it has spiny stems and vibrant, showy flowers

Watering Guide:

Watering After Planting:

• Initial Watering: Water thoroughly immediately after planting to saturate the root ball and surrounding soil
• Frequency: Water every 3-4 days for the first 2-3 weeks to help establish the root system
• Watering Amount: Provide 1 inch of water per session to ensure deep watering

When is the Plant Established?

• Timeframe: Crown of Thorns (Orange/Red) is considered established after 2-3 months when the roots have spread into the surrounding soil

Watering Once Established:

• Summer: Water every 7-10 days during the hotter months. If temperatures exceed 100°F, increase watering to every 5-7 days. Provide 1.5-2 inches of water per session.
• Winter: Water every 3-4 weeks during the cooler months, depending on rainfall.

Drip Irrigation Setup:

• Placement of Emitters: Place the drip emitters 12-18 inches away from the base of the plant to ensure deep watering of the root zone
• Flow Rate: Use emitters with a flow rate of 1-2 gallons per hour
• Number of Emitters: 1 emitter per plant for even watering distribution
• Adjusting Frequency: Increase watering in the summer to every 5-7 days, and reduce watering in winter to every 3-4 weeks