The plant known as the “Christ in the Manger Plant” is a recognizable and resilient flowering succulent. This article identifies the plant, advises on where to purchase it, and provides instructions for successful growth.
Identifying the Plant: The Crown of Thorns (Euphorbia milii)
The plant commonly called “Christ in the Manger” is botanically Euphorbia milii, or the Crown of Thorns. This common name references the religious story, linking the plant’s sharp, dense thorns to the crown worn during the crucifixion. The woody stems are covered in prominent, needle-like spines, making the succulent immediately identifiable.
The plant’s true flowers are small and yellow-green, surrounded by showy, petal-like structures called bracts. These colorful bracts appear in vibrant shades of red, pink, yellow, or white. Native to Madagascar, Euphorbia milii is a hardy, shrubby succulent that can bloom nearly year-round. A different plant, the Night Blooming Cereus (Epiphyllum oxypetalum), is also sometimes called “Christ in the Manger” due to the shape of its large, white flower buds, which can cause occasional confusion.
Retailers and Specialized Sources
Availability of the Crown of Thorns can be seasonal. Check large garden centers and the gardening sections of major big-box retailers first. These stores frequently stock Euphorbia milii during the spring and summer months, which are the primary growing seasons for houseplants.
Local specialty nurseries, particularly those focusing on succulents, cacti, or tropical plants, are excellent sources for finding unique cultivars. These smaller shops often carry rare varieties or hybrids with larger, more colorful bracts that are not typically available in chain stores. When visiting these locations, always search by the common name “Crown of Thorns” or the scientific name Euphorbia milii to confirm you are purchasing the correct plant.
The online marketplace provides the widest selection of Euphorbia milii, especially for collectors seeking specific flower colors or Thai hybrids. Dedicated succulent websites and mail-order nurseries specialize in shipping live plants, ensuring the specimen is packaged to withstand transit. Large e-commerce platforms like Etsy and eBay also feature numerous small-scale growers who sell rooted cuttings or established plants directly to consumers.
When purchasing online, review seller ratings and feedback, specifically looking for comments regarding plant health and shipping practices. Using both the common name and the scientific name in your search query will yield the most comprehensive results. Plants shipped bare-root, without soil, are a common practice for succulents and typically experience less stress during shipping.
Essential Care for Your New Plant
The Crown of Thorns requires bright, direct sunlight to thrive and bloom prolifically. This plant originates from arid regions. Indoors, place it near a south or west-facing window where it can receive at least three to four hours of direct sun daily.
The watering regimen should mimic the plant’s native drought-tolerant environment by allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Overwatering is the most common cause of decline, leading to root rot and yellowing leaves. During the winter months, when the plant’s growth naturally slows, you should significantly reduce the frequency of watering.
A well-draining substrate is necessary to prevent water retention; use a commercial cactus or succulent potting mix. The plant prefers warm conditions, with an ideal temperature range between 65 and 95 degrees Fahrenheit. Protect the plant from cold drafts, as temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit can cause damage.
Be aware that the stems of Euphorbia milii exude a milky, white sap called latex when cut or damaged. This sap is mildly toxic and can cause skin irritation or be harmful if ingested. Wear gloves when handling the plant, especially during pruning or repotting, to avoid contact with the irritating latex.