19 Disadvantages of Crown Of Thorns You Should Know About

The Crown of Thorns, or Euphorbia milii, is a fascinating houseplant known for its resilience and striking appearance. But like any plant, it comes with its own set of challenges. While it’s beloved for its vibrant blooms and hardy nature, there are some downsides worth considering before bringing one into your home.

In this article, we're going to look at 19 potential drawbacks to owning a Crown of Thorns. From its prickly demeanor to its particular care needs, we’ll explore what you should know to make an informed decision about this plant.

Prickly and Potentially Painful

One of the most obvious features of the Crown of Thorns is its spiky stems. While these thorns are part of its charm, they can be a bit hazardous. If you have small children or pets, you might want to think twice about placing this plant within reach. Those thorns can do some damage if you're not careful!

To avoid any painful encounters, consider positioning your plant in a spot where it's less likely to be bumped into. And when it comes time for pruning or repotting, gardening gloves are your best friend. Trust me, you don’t want to be caught without them. It’s also worth mentioning that if you’re planning on a hands-on gardening session, keep a first-aid kit nearby just in case.

Messy Sap Situation

Crown of Thorns plants have a milky sap that’s both sticky and potentially irritating. If you've ever tried to clean up a spill of this sap, you'll know it can be a bit of a chore. Worse yet, the sap can cause skin irritation for some people, so it’s best to wash your hands thoroughly after handling the plant.

Accidental drips of sap on furniture or floors can lead to stains, which are quite tricky to remove. It's wise to keep your plant on a surface that’s easy to clean, or place a protective mat underneath to catch any drips. For those with sensitive skin, wearing long sleeves when working with this plant can prevent any unwanted reactions.

Not So Pet-Friendly

Pet lovers, this one's for you. Crown of Thorns is known to be toxic to cats and dogs if ingested. Curious pets that like to nibble on houseplants might find themselves in trouble if they take a bite out of this one. Symptoms can include drooling, vomiting, or worse, so it’s crucial to keep this plant out of reach.

If you're determined to have a Crown of Thorns in a pet-friendly home, consider placing it in a hanging planter or on a high shelf. This way, your furry friends can stay safe, and your plant can still thrive. If you suspect your pet has ingested any part of the plant, contact your vet immediately for advice.

Fickle About Water

While Crown of Thorns is a succulent and doesn’t require a lot of water, it can be a bit picky about when and how much it receives. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while underwatering can cause the leaves to wither and drop. It’s a fine balance that can take some time to master.

A good rule of thumb is to let the soil dry out completely between waterings. You can stick your finger into the soil to check for moisture, or invest in a moisture meter for a more precise reading. If you’re prone to forgetting about your plants, setting a reminder on your phone can help you keep track of watering schedules.

Selective About Its Light

While the Crown of Thorns enjoys bright light, direct sunlight can sometimes be too intense, leading to scorched leaves. Finding the sweet spot for this plant can be a bit of a challenge, especially if you have limited natural light in your home.

Placing it near a south or east-facing window usually does the trick, but if the sun’s rays are too much, sheer curtains can help diffuse the light. On cloudy days or during winter months, you might need to supplement with a grow light to keep your plant happy and healthy.

Sensitive to Temperature Changes

Temperature fluctuations can be another obstacle for the Crown of Thorns. While it prefers warmer temperatures, sudden drops can stress the plant and cause leaf drop. Drafty windows or proximity to air conditioning units can be problematic.

Try to maintain a consistent indoor temperature, ideally between 65-75°F (18-24°C), and keep the plant away from drafts or heat sources. If you live in an area with cold winters, double-check that your plant isn’t too close to a drafty window.

Pest Magnet

Though relatively hardy, Crown of Thorns can attract pests like mealybugs and spider mites. These critters can be a real nuisance, feeding on the plant's sap and potentially causing damage.

Regularly inspecting your plant can help catch an infestation early. If you spot any pests, a gentle spray with insecticidal soap or a mixture of water and dish soap can help. For a more natural approach, try a neem oil spray, which can deter pests without harming beneficial insects.

Growth Can Be a Bit Slow

If you’re looking for a plant that quickly fills out a space, the Crown of Thorns might not be your best bet. It tends to grow slowly, which can be frustrating if you’re eager to see progress.

Patience is key here. Providing the right conditions—adequate light, proper watering, and occasional feeding—can encourage growth, but don’t expect miracles. If you’re looking for faster results, consider grouping several plants together for more immediate visual impact.

Repotting Woes

Given its thorny nature, repotting a Crown of Thorns can be a bit of a challenge. The plant doesn't need frequent repotting thanks to its slow growth, but when the time comes, handling it can be tricky.

Make sure to wear thick gloves and proceed with caution. Having a friend help you can make the process smoother, allowing one person to handle the plant while the other manages the pot and soil. Remember, it’s not a race—take your time to avoid accidental pricks.

Final Thoughts

While the Crown of Thorns can be a delightful addition to your plant collection, it’s important to be aware of its quirks and challenges. From its prickly nature to specific care requirements, there’s a lot to consider.

At Cafe Planta, we're here to support you on your plant journey. Whether you need advice or are looking to add a new plant to your home, we have everything you need. Feel free to email us or send a message on Instagram. We believe in the power of plants to bring joy and beauty into your space, and we're excited to help you create your perfect plant haven.