Crown of Thorns

Euphorbia

The Crown of Thorns is a unique plant with spiky stems and colorful flowers. It’s named for its thorny appearance, just like a crown!

Habitat: Dry, tropical areas

Appearance

The Crown of Thorns is a spiny, succulent shrub featuring woody stems densely covered in sharp, greyish-brown thorns. Its inconspicuous true flowers are encircled by vibrant, petal-like bracts, typically bright red, pink, or yellow, creating a striking visual against its green leaves.

KingdomPlantaePhylumTracheophytaClassMagnoliopsidaOrderMalpighialesFamilyEuphorbiaceaeGenusEuphorbia

Crown of Thorns

Interesting facts

Even though it looks spiky like a cactus, it's actually a succulent plant!

In its wild home, this plant can grow into a woody shrub over six feet tall!

Its common name comes from a belief it was used in the biblical Crown of Thorns!

The plant's vibrant 'flowers' are actually special leaves called bracts, not true petals!

Special abilities

Crown of Thorns has super sharp thorns covering its stems that help it defend against hungry animals trying to take a bite.

Crown of Thorns can store water in its thick, succulent stems, allowing it to survive long periods without rain.

Crown of Thorns produces a milky, irritating sap that oozes when cut, helping to protect it from pests.

Measurements & details

Height: 60-180 cm
Spread: 30-90 cm
Flower Size: 1-2.5 cm
Bloom Season: Year-round
Is Edible: No
Toxicity: Moderate
Lifecycle: Perennial
Pollination Method: Insect

Ecological connections

pollinates

Honey Bee

Apis mellifera

Visits flowers for nectar.

pollinates

Buff-tailed Bumblebee

Bombus terrestris

Collects pollen and nectar.

pollinates

Red Admiral

Vanessa atalanta

Feeds on nectar.

Traits

Everblooming

Discover plants that seem to bloom non-stop, gracing your garden with colorful flowers throughout an extended season. They're always ready to show off!

Thorny Stem

Discover plants with strong stems protected by sharp thorns, perfect for staying safe in the wild.

Drought Tolerant

These clever plants are superstars at saving water, thriving even when it's dry and sunny with very little rain. They're nature's resourceful friends!

Succulent

These cool plants are like nature's sponges, storing water in their thick, fleshy leaves and stems to help them survive in dry places.

Colorful

Discover amazing plants and animals that show off a dazzling array of bright and beautiful hues! They use their vibrant colors to attract attention or send signals.