Euphorbia milii, commonly known as the Crown of Thorns plant, is a species of succulent plant native to Madagascar.

It is a member of the Euphorbia family, which includes over 2,000 species of plants, many of which are grown for their ornamental value. Euphorbia milii is one of the most popular species in this family, and it is widely cultivated as a houseplant or garden plant in many parts of the world.

Euphorbia milii is a woody, spiny succulent plant that can grow up to 1.5 meters (5 feet) tall. Its stems are thick and thorny, and they are covered with small, oval-shaped leaves that are arranged in pairs along the stem. The leaves are dark green in color and can range from 1-2 cm (0.4-0.8 inches) in length.

The plant is best known for its colorful, showy bracts that surround the tiny, inconspicuous flowers. The bracts are typically bright red or pink in color, but they can also be white, yellow, orange, or even green. The flowers themselves are small and insignificant, but the bracts make up for this with their striking appearance. The bracts can last for several weeks to months and will fall off after the flowering period.

Euphorbia milii is a hardy plant that is relatively easy to care for. It prefers bright, indirect light and should be kept in temperatures between 15-25°C (59-77°F). The plant can tolerate brief periods of drought, but it should be watered regularly during the growing season to keep the soil moist. In the winter, the plant should be watered less frequently, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

The plant can be propagated through stem cuttings or by seed. To propagate through cuttings, simply take a stem cutting from the plant and allow it to dry out for a few days. Once the cutting has callused over, it can be planted in a potting mix and watered sparingly until it develops roots. Seed propagation is also possible, but it is less common.

Euphorbia milii is primarily grown as an ornamental plant for its showy bracts. It is often used in gardens or as a potted plant in homes, offices, and public spaces. The plant is also used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments. The latex of the plant is known to have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, and it has been used to treat skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis.

While Euphorbia milii is a popular plant, it should be handled with care. The plant's sap contains toxic compounds that can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in some people. If you come into contact with the sap, wash the affected area with soap and water immediately. Additionally, the plant should be kept away from children and pets, as ingestion can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and other symptoms.

Euphorbia milii is a beautiful and hardy plant that is well-suited for both indoor and outdoor cultivation. Its striking bracts and low maintenance requirements make it a popular choice for those looking to add some color and greenery to their homes or gardens. However, it is important to handle the plant with care and take precautions to avoid any adverse reactions from the plant's sap. With proper care, Euphorbia milii can thrive and bring joy to its owners for years to come.