The term “Jezebel plant” often causes confusion about its true botanical identity. This common name does not refer to a specific plant, but rather points to another popular and distinct species. Understanding this distinction is key to properly identifying and caring for the plant people often have in mind.
Unraveling the Name
The name “Jezebel plant” is not a recognized botanical term. It most frequently refers to Euphorbia milii, widely known as the Crown of Thorns plant. This association likely stems from the plant’s thorny stems, which can evoke a sense of danger or allure, reminiscent of the biblical figure Jezebel. The Crown of Thorns belongs to the Euphorbiaceae family, a genus with over 1,600 species. Its scientific name, Euphorbia milii, honors Baron Milius, who introduced the species into cultivation in France in the early 19th century.
Characteristics of Crown of Thorns
The Crown of Thorns (Euphorbia milii) is a striking succulent shrub native to Madagascar, known for its distinctive appearance. Its woody, branched stems are covered with prominent, sharp gray spines, which can grow up to an inch long. While the true flowers are small and inconspicuous, they are surrounded by showy, petal-like bracts in vibrant shades of red, orange, pink, yellow, or white. These colorful bracts, often mistaken for actual flowers, contribute significantly to the plant’s appeal.
It features thick, bright green, obovate leaves on new stem growth. As stems mature, older leaves naturally drop off, which can give the plant a scraggly appearance. Outdoors, the Crown of Thorns can grow 3 to 6 feet tall, while as a houseplant, it generally reaches about 2 feet. This slow-growing succulent can bloom almost year-round in ideal conditions.
Caring for Crown of Thorns
Light
Crown of Thorns plants thrive in bright, direct sunlight for vigorous growth and abundant flowering. For optimal blooms, it needs at least three to four hours of direct sun daily. When grown indoors, a south or west-facing window is an ideal location. Insufficient light can lead to leggy growth and a noticeable reduction in flower production.
Water
As a succulent, Crown of Thorns is drought-tolerant, storing water in its thick, spiny stems. Overwatering can lead to root rot; allow the soil to dry completely between waterings. A good practice is to water thoroughly when the top inch or two of soil feels dry. During dormant winter months, it requires less frequent watering.
Soil
Crown of Thorns needs excellent drainage to prevent waterlogging. A well-draining cactus or succulent potting mix is recommended for potted plants. Outdoors, ensure well-draining soil, potentially amended with sand or perlite. Using a container not overly large for the root ball also helps prevent excess moisture.
Temperature and Humidity
Crown of Thorns prefers warm temperatures, ideally 65-75°F (18-24°C). While it tolerates slight temperature variations, it is sensitive to sudden changes; avoid drafts or vents. It is not demanding regarding humidity and thrives in average household levels. Its tolerance for low humidity makes it suitable for indoor environments.
Fertilizing
During its active growing season (spring through fall), Crown of Thorns benefits from regular fertilization. A balanced liquid fertilizer, diluted to half strength, can be applied every few weeks to encourage more prolific flowering and healthy growth. Over-fertilizing can result in more foliage at the expense of flowers, so moderation is important. Reduce or cease fertilization during its dormant winter period.
Toxicity and Safety
All parts of the Crown of Thorns contain a toxic milky white sap, also known as latex. This sap contains phorbol esters, which can cause skin irritation (rashes and blisters) upon contact. Eye contact can cause severe irritation, temporary blindness, or permanent vision loss. Ingestion can lead to gastrointestinal upset, including severe stomach pain, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Due to its toxicity, handle Crown of Thorns with care. Wear gloves when pruning or repotting to prevent skin contact. Keep the plant out of reach of children and pets to avoid accidental exposure or ingestion. If contact occurs, thoroughly rinse the affected area with water, and seek medical attention if symptoms are severe or persist.
Propagation and Common Issues
Crown of Thorns is most commonly propagated through stem cuttings. Select a healthy stem section about 3-4 inches long. After cutting, allow the end to “callus over” for two to three days in a dry, shady spot before planting. This callusing prevents rot when the cutting is placed in soil. Once callused, insert the cutting into a well-draining potting mix, and water sparingly until roots establish.
While generally resilient, Crown of Thorns can face common issues. Overwatering is the primary concern, leading to root rot, yellowing leaves, and soft stems. Proper drainage and allowing the soil to dry between waterings can prevent this. Pests like mealybugs, spider mites, and scale can affect the plant; addressing infestations with treatments like neem oil or insecticidal soap can manage these issues. Leaf drop can also occur due to sudden temperature changes, insufficient light, or improper watering.