Introducing the Thornless Crown of Thorns, scientifically known as Euphorbia geroldii, is a fascinating succulent plant that is admired for its unique characteristics. Unlike its spikier relatives Euphorbia milii, this particular variety of Crown of Thorns is thornless, making it a popular choice for those who prefer a safer and more gentle Euphorbia plant. It is also known as thornless Euphorbia and Gerold's Spurge.  

This Euphorbia spurge features thick, fleshy stems that grow upright, reaching heights of up to 2 feet. Its stems are typically a vibrant green in color, providing a refreshing and lively appearance. This crown of thorns plant has glossy green leaves that are small and oval-shaped, arranged along the stems in an alternating pattern, making it a true showstopper.  

 The flower of Euphorbia geroldii are one of its standout features; they are in the shape of a saucer (mostly red with a yellow center) with an alluring hue. It produces clusters of small, vibrant blooms that can range in color from shades of pink, red, orange, and even yellow. These colorful flowers add a delightful pop of color to the thornless crown of thorns plant and attract pollinators such as butterflies. 

This Euphorbia succulent is safe to touch, but it's important to use caution when handling it because the sap within is mildly toxic if consumed in large amounts. Overall, Euphorbia geroldii is a captivating and low-maintenance succulent that brings beauty and charm to any space. Its thornless nature, vibrant flowers, and attractive foliage make it a popular choice among succulent enthusiasts. 

Watering Needs

The thornless crown of thorns has moderate watering needs. It is important to allow the soil to dry out between waterings to prevent overwatering, which can lead to root rot. A good rule of thumb is to water this crown of thorns plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.  

When watering in the growing season, which is typically in spring and summer, it is best to thoroughly soak the soil and let the excess water drain out. Avoid leaving this succulent plant sitting in standing water, as this can also cause root rot. During the winter months or when the plant is in a dormant phase, it may require less frequent watering. 

Remember, it's always better to underwater than to overwater succulents like Euphorbia geroldii. Observing the crown of Thorns' plant's response and adjusting watering accordingly is key to maintaining its health and preventing any water-related issues. 

Light Requirement 

The Thornless Crown of Thorns, Euphorbia geroldii, thrives in bright, direct sunlight. It enjoys being placed in a location where it can receive six hours of bright light each day. A sunny windowsill or a spot near a window with a sheer curtain can be ideal for this crown of thorns. 

While Euphorbia geroldii enjoys sunlight, it is important to protect it from intense afternoon direct sunlight, especially during the hottest parts of the day. Too much direct sunlight over 6 hours of the day can scorch the leaves and cause damage to the crown of thorns plant. If you notice the leaves turning yellow or brown, it may be a sign that it is receiving too much direct sunlight. 

If you find that your thornless crown of thorns is not receiving enough light, you can supplement its light requirements with artificial grow lights. LED grow lights are a popular choice as they provide the necessary light spectrum for this flowering spurge growth without generating excessive heat. 

Remember, finding the right balance of light is crucial for the Crown of Thorns plant care. Providing it with bright light will help it thrive and maintain its vibrant appearance. 

Optimal Soil & Fertilizer Needs

For the Thornless Crown of Thorns, well-draining soil is essential. A mix of cactus or succulent soil combined with perlite or coarse sand works well. This type of soil allows excess water to drain away, preventing the roots from sitting in water and potentially rotting. Instead, make or buy a well-draining potting mix, or ideally, use our specialized succulent potting mix that contains 5 natural substrates and mycorrhizae to promote the development of a strong root system that helps your succulent to thrive.  

When it comes to fertilizing, Euphorbia geroldii doesn't have high nutrient requirements. A balanced fertilizer of NPK (5-10-5) for succulents can be used. During the active growing season, which is typically spring, you can fertilize once a year. However, it's important to avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to salt build-up and damage to the crown of the Thorns plant. 

Hardiness Zone & More 

Euphorbia geroldii prefers warm conditions and is generally suitable for USDA hardiness zones 9-11, where temperatures typically stay above freezing. 

It can tolerate temperatures between 60-85°F. It's important to protect the plant from frost and cold drafts, as they can damage or kill the plant. 

As for humidity, this crown of thorns' is adaptable to a range of humidity levels. It can tolerate both dry and moderately humid environments. However, it's generally best to provide average indoor humidity levels, around 40-60%. Remember, these are general guidelines, and it's always a good idea to observe how your specific plant responds to its environment and make adjustments accordingly. 

At Planet Desert, we're proud to offer Euphorbia geroldii - the crown of thorns plant for sale online so that gardening enthusiasts everywhere can enjoy its beauty.