Tiara Charlotte

Euphorbia milii

Euphorbia

Also known as

Crown of Christ, Christ plant, Christ thorn

Scientific classification

Class

Magnoliopsida (Dicotyledoneae)

Division

Magnoliophyta (Angiosperms)

Family

Euphorbiaceae

Order

Malpighiales

Genus

Euphorbia

Species

milii

Key information

Description

Euphorbia milii isa shrub with numerous succulent, slightly angular branches covered in thorns. The green hue of the leaves – which are obovate or elongated – highlights the bright colour of the bracts that enclose the flowers, which are grouped in cyathium-like inflorescences.

In areas with harsh winters, it is suitable as a plant for window boxes and pots, and can then be brought indoors to a very bright spot, whilst in areas with a warm temperate climate it can also be grown in the garden within mixed borders.

Variety description

Euphorbia charlotte is a variant of the milli, with much larger and more substantial foliage. The flowers, with considerably larger bracts, are a deep pink colour. The plant is remarkably vigorous and its flowers are very showy. In temperate climates, it can be planted outdoors in full sun. Unlike the similarly named ‘Milli’, it requires much more water. Indoors, it can be kept in very bright areas, even if they are not very warm.

Origin and history

Curiosities and special features

Euphorbia milii contains a white, milky liquid within its tissues which, on contact with the skin or eyes, causes irritation and inflammation; it is also toxic if ingested. It is therefore advisable to wear gloves when handling it and to keep it out of the reach of children and pets.

Origin and distribution

A species native to Madagascar, where it was discovered in 1826.

Main features

Leaf

The leaves, which are simple and alternate, have an elongated blade with an entire margin.

Leaf colour

It has a uniform green colour.

Plant height

The plant’s height ranges from 0.2 to 0.35 m.

Lifespan

An evergreen perennial shrub in areas with a warm temperate climate.

If the mature plant is kept cool in winter, it tends to enter a period of dormancy, shedding its leaves, and will then sprout again if growing conditions are optimal.

Where to plant

Given its size and distinctive flowering habit, it is well suited as a plant for balconies, hanging baskets, pots, planters, outdoor flowerbeds or borders in temperate climates, as well as terraces, planters and gazebos.

Stem

The stems, which are slightly angular, are eitherherbaceous or fleshy; this variety has hooked thorns distributed along the branches.

Flower

The flower is simple in shape, small in size, with single-coloured petals. It is arranged in medium-sized compound umbel inflorescences. It flowers all year round, with a flowering period of between 120 and 150 days.

Growth

This variety is characterised by its rounded growth habit, making it ideal for planters and pots.

Plant habit

Vigorous, it grows into a rounded shape.

Branching

Withabundant branching and a high density of foliage.

Growing conditions

PH

It requires a substrate or soil pH of between 6.0 and 6.5.

Soil preparation

For use in the garden, provided weather conditions permit, it is advisable to give the soil a light dig before transplanting in late spring, removing any weeds, residues from previous crops and large stones, and then working in organic or chemical fertiliser.

If the soil is too compact and heavy, work sand into it evenly. Furthermore, to ensure proper drainage of excess water, you can create a slight mound to form a raised bed.

Sun exposure

Suitable for the following types of exposure: outdoors on balconies or terraces in temperate zones, under a light source indoors, in partial shade, in full sun.

To encourage abundant flowering, it is best to place it in a brightly lit spot.

Ideal climate and temperature

The ideal temperature is between 19 and 25 °C. The survival temperature range is between 8 and 40 °C.

It is a houseplant in cold climates, but indoors or in workplaces it does not require excessively high temperatures, just plenty of light.

Use

It is widely appreciated in:
Outdoor ornamental use Interior ornamental applications

Hardiness

A variety with medium to high hardiness.

Soil

For growing in planters or pots, use a high-quality, well-draining and lightweight growing medium consisting of peat, sand and perlite.

Difficulty

It isfairly easy to grow and requires little maintenance.

Growing tips

Some specific growing guidelines:
In low light, the plants will not flower Balanced fertilisation Avoid overwatering Keep the growing medium dry in cold weather Keep the growing medium consistently moist Place outdoors once there is no longer any risk of frost Exposure to direct light

Care and plant health

Planting

For growing in beds, an average density of 5 plants per square metre is recommended.

When transplanting, remove the seedling from its container without damaging the roots and plant the root ball completely, ensuring it is moist to prevent the leaves from drying out.

Water immediately after transplanting, particularly in hot weather, but without causing prolonged waterlogging; also, avoid exposing the plant to direct sunlight straight away.

Propagation

It is propagated by apical cuttings.

Watering

During the hottest period, keep the growing medium or soil slightly moist, but not waterlogged.

Avoid periods of dryness, which can lead to yellowing and leaf drop.

In winter, reduce or stop watering.

Fertilising

During the spring and summer, and until the start of autumn, apply a liquid fertiliser to the growing medium or soil approximately every 15 days, diluted in the watering water; you can use a fertiliser specifically designed for succulents.

During the winter, stop fertilising.