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The Crown of Christ Plant: A Complete Guide and Care Tips
The Crown of Christ plant, also known as Euphorbia milii, is a popular houseplant that is native to Madagascar.
It is named after Prince Albert of England’s father-in-law, Sir William Milne, who was a prominent botanist in the 19th century.
The plant features bright red bracts that resemble flowers and thorny green stems.
In this article, we will provide you with a complete guide on how to care for your crown of Christ plant.
Lighting Requirements
The crown of Christ plant requires bright but indirect sunlight to thrive.
Place it near a window where it can receive plenty of natural light without being exposed to direct sunlight.
If you notice the leaves turning yellow or brown, it may be an indication that they are receiving too much sun exposure.
Watering Needs
It’s important not to overwater your crown of Christ plant as it can cause root rot.
Allow the soil to dry out slightly before watering again.
It’s best to water your plants once every two weeks during the growing season (spring and summer) and once every month during winter when growth slows down.
- Water deeply until water starts draining from the bottom drainage holes.
- Avoid getting water on its foliage or stem which could lead to rotting
- To ensure accurate watering requirements use moisture meters for accuracy purposes
Fertilization Needs
You only need to fertilize your crown-of-Christ plant twice per year; once in spring and then again in summer when growth is at its peak period.A fertilizer high in potassium like tomato feed should be used sparingly because they promote blooming and flowering, especially when the plant is in bloom.
Soil Requirements
The crown of Christ plant prefers well-draining soil that’s rich in organic matter.
It’s best to use a commercial potting mix or make your own by mixing equal parts compost, peat moss, and perlite.
Temperature
The ideal temperature range for the crown of Christ plant is between 60 – 85°F (15 – 29°C).
Avoid placing it in a location that experiences extreme temperatures like drafty areas during winter.
Pruning/Cleaning Needs
The Crown of Christ plant has many branches which require pruning from time to time.
Prune back any dead or yellowing leaves or stems with sterilized shears.
Clean the foliage periodically using a damp cloth to remove dust buildup which can interfere with breathing.
Toxicity Concerns
Euphorbia milii contains white latex sap that can cause skin irritation upon contact and should be kept away from children and pets because it is highly toxic when ingested.It’s essential to wash your hands thoroughly after handling this plant or wear gloves while pruning/cleaning it.
Conclusion:
The Crown of Christ Plant requires minimal care but still produces stunning red bracts throughout its growing season.Don’t despair if you encounter any challenges while caring for this beautiful houseplant; just make sure to follow our guide tips on lighting requirements, watering needs, fertilization requirements, soil needs, temperature ranges,cleaning/ pruning techniques,and toxicity concerns.With these tips,you’ll have a healthy thriving Euphorbia milii specimen as part of your houseplant collection within no time!
