Euphorbia milii 'Zeus' (Crown of Thorns)

The Euphorbia milii 'Zeus', also known as Crown of Thorns 'Zeus', is an attractive and thorny tropical succulent shrub prized for its abundant blooms of bright red floral bracts. This variety is distinguished by its low and bushy form, vigorous growth, and brown-streaked stems. Easy to care for and adaptable to indoor life, it brings a touch of vibrant colour and the exotic. Please note that it is toxic if ingested and its sap can irritate the skin.

Key Features

• Foliage: Thick, oval, bright green leaves.
• Flowers: Small, inconspicuous green flowers surrounded by showy, bright red bell-shaped bracts. Blooming can occur almost year-round if conditions are right.
• Habit: Low, compact, and bushy shrub.
• Growth: Vigorous.
• Care: Easy.

Care Tips

• Light: Full sun is ideal for abundant flowering. Indoors, a west or south-facing location is best in winter.
• Soil: Requires well-draining soil, ideally a cactus potting mix. The pot should not be too large to avoid water retention.
• Watering: Water when the soil is dry about 2-3 cm (1 inch) below the surface. Water thoroughly and allow any excess water to drain away. Reduce watering in winter when the plant enters semi-dormancy. Do not let the plant sit in water.
• Temperature and Humidity: Prefers temperatures between 18°C and 24°C (65°F and 75°F). Tolerates temperatures down to 10°C (50°F) at night. Does not require any particular humidity.
• Fertilization: From spring through fall, fertilize with a balanced indoor plant fertilizer about once every two waterings, diluting the fertilizer to half its strength.
• Pruning: Wear gloves when pruning to avoid contact with the latex. Prune any yellowing leaves to encourage new growth. Can be pruned to maintain a compact shape.
• Propagation: Easy by stem cuttings in spring or summer. Allow the cutting to dry for a few days before planting it in a cactus mix.

Caution: Toxic plant. The latex can be irritating.