Crown of Thorns-red

The red variety of Crown of Thorns, scientifically known as Euphorbia milii, is a popular and visually striking succulent plant. Native to Madagascar, it is renowned for its vibrant red bracts that add a splash of bright color, making it a distinctive and attractive addition to any plant collection.

This plant typically grows to about 1 to 3 feet in height and spreads 1 to 2 feet. It features thick, succulent stems covered in sharp, prominent spines. The leaves are small, green, and oval-shaped, but they may fall off in less than ideal conditions or to conserve water.

The most notable feature of the red Crown of Thorns is its stunning bracts, which are a vivid red color. These bracts surround the plant's small, true flowers, creating a long-lasting and showy display. The bracts are particularly abundant and bright when the plant is exposed to ample sunlight.

Euphorbia milii prefers full sun to partial shade and thrives in well-draining soil. It is drought-tolerant and should be watered sparingly, especially during the winter months, to avoid root rot.

In landscaping and indoor plant collections, the red Crown of Thorns is often used as an ornamental plant due to its striking appearance and low maintenance requirements. It is well-suited for rock gardens, cactus gardens, and as a container plant, both indoors and outdoors. The plant's vibrant red bracts make it a popular choice for adding a pop of color and interest to various settings.

Overall, the red Crown of Thorns is a low-maintenance and visually appealing plant, ideal for gardeners and plant enthusiasts looking to add a touch of exotic beauty and vibrant color to their collection. Its striking red bracts, combined with its architectural form, make it a favorite among those seeking a drought-tolerant yet decorative plant.

Three Timbers Installation Guide (Feel Free to Follow): Crown of Thorns - 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 for optimal growth and air circulation
• 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 (Red) does not require staking and grows as an upright shrub with spiny stems and bright red 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 for deep watering

When is the Plant Established?

• Timeframe: Crown of Thorns (Red) is considered established after 2-3 months when the roots have spread into the surrounding soil and the plant begins showing consistent new growth

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
• 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 to every 5-7 days in summer. In winter, reduce to every 3-4 weeks