Originating from Madagascar this plant becomes thorny and will reach about 50cm and sometimes up to one metre in height. It has succulent, oval-shaped leaves and the flowers are usually red, but specimens are available in pink, white or yellow. 

The flowers are actually bracts (modified leaves) that look like petals, with the flowers themselves small and insignificant between the bracts.

The Euphorbia milii is very easy to grow. It loves sunshine and will reward you with a mass of flowers if it gets enough light. It will still grow well in a semi-shaded location, but the number of flowers will be less. If you’re using this plant as an indoor specimen, it needs a warm room with masses of natural light – put it near a north-facing window for great results. 

This plant will also grow well outside, just make sure it doesn’t get too much water and doesn’t get too cold. In a really cold spot this plant is known to drop its leaves. 

Watering is also important - water and then wait for the top few centimetres of soil to dry out before you water again; the plant needs to be in a well-drained soil. Never let the soil dry out completely.

This group of plants contains a poisonous sap which can be an irritant to skin and more importantly the eyes, so keep this plant away from young children and from animals.

The Crown of Thorns is a truly gorgeous plant. Give it sun and water and it will reward you with an endless supply of flowers. 

It’s also forgiving. Mistreat it a couple of times and it will still look great, but long periods of mistreatment (not enough light and too much or too little water) will cause problems. If you don’t have one already, put this plant on your wish list.

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ONE of the most mistreated groups of plants must be the ‘indoor’ plants – they are at your mercy, and without constant care will suffer and may eventually find themselves relegated to the bin.

A FEW TIPS