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Crown of Thorns
Euphorbia milii
Reviewed by Kiersten Rankel M.S.
QUICK ANSWER
Stem cuttings are the most reliable home method and root in 4 to 6 weeks because crown of thorns produces strong woody stems that callous well.
Seed starting works for crown of thorns but takes 6 to 12 months and rarely produces a plant that looks like the parent, so cuttings are the better choice for most growers.
Seed starting works for crown of thorns but takes 6 to 12 months and rarely produces a plant that looks like the parent, so cuttings are the better choice for most growers.
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Stem cuttings
Time
4–6 weeks
Level
Intermediate
Success rate
High
You'll need
Sterile shears or a sharp knife
A 4-inch pot with drainage
A 50/50 mix of cactus mix and perlite
Disposable gloves and eye protection
Cool water in a small cup
Bright indirect light
1
Gear up before cutting
Wear gloves, long sleeves, and eye protection. The white milky sap of this species is highly irritating to skin and dangerous in the eyes. Work outdoors or over a sink, never on a kitchen counter where pets might investigate.
2
Cut a 4 to 6 inch tip
Choose a healthy branch with several pairs of leaves and no flower buds. Cut cleanly with sterile shears just above where the branch meets the main stem. Strip the lower 2 inches of leaves to expose bare stem, working carefully around the thorns.
3
Stop the sap with cool water
Dip the cut end immediately into a cup of cool water for 30 seconds. This stops the milky sap from flowing and seals the wound on the parent plant.
Untreated sap forms a thick crust that blocks new roots from emerging. The water dip is the single most important step for this species.
Untreated sap forms a thick crust that blocks new roots from emerging. The water dip is the single most important step for this species.
4
Let the cut callous for 7 days
Set the cutting on a paper towel in a dry shaded spot for a full week. The cut end will form a hard dry skin. Crown of thorns cuttings need a longer callous than most succulents because the wound is large and sap-filled.
5
Plant in dry succulent mix
Fill the pot with the cactus and perlite blend. Push the calloused stem 2 inches into the dry soil. Press firmly so the cutting stands on its own. Do not water yet.
6
Wait 10 days, then water lightly
Place the pot in bright indirect light at warm room temperature. Wait 10 full days before the first watering. Then water just enough to dampen the soil and let it dry completely between waterings.
New leaves at the top within 4 to 6 weeks confirm rooting. Move to direct sun and resume standard crown of thorns care.
New leaves at the top within 4 to 6 weeks confirm rooting. Move to direct sun and resume standard crown of thorns care.
WATCH FOR
The cutting wilts and the stem turns soft at soil level. That is rot from premature watering or skipping the water-dip step. Pull the cutting, slice off the rotted section with a sterile blade, water-dip and callous for 10 days this time, then replant. A firm cutting that has not produced new leaves at week 4 is still alive and may just need another week or two.
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About This Article
Kiersten Rankel M.S.
Botanical Data Lead at Greg · Plant Scientist
Editorial Process
Propagation methods verified against Euphorbia milii growth data from Greg's botanical database, cross-referenced with USDA hardiness zone data and published horticultural research.
6,522+ Greg users growing this plant
USDA hardiness zones 9a–11b