Warning

For all eye exposures by sap rinse the eye with water for 15 minutes. Then seek medical assistance.

Description

A semi-succulent, small, spreading shrub with stout spines, grown as an ornamental.

The small flowers are bordered by erect heads of showy, saucer-shaped, red bracts. The flower stalks are sticky to touch.

The leaves are 2-6cm long, oblong in shape, thin in texture, occurring mostly on new growth.

Toxicity

  • Potentially toxic

  • Irritant to skin or eyes

  • Respiratory irritant

Symptoms

The sap is reported as being corrosive to the skin and eyes, causing skin blisters and temporary blindness. The stout spines can also cause mechanical injury.

Images

Photo by Mary Louden

Details

Common name: Crown of thorns

Botanical nameEuphorbia milii

Family: Euphorbiaceae

General description: A semi-succulent, small, spreading shrub with stout spines, grown as an ornamental.

Flowers: The small flowers are bordered by erect heads of showy, saucer-shaped, red bracts. The flower stalks are sticky to touch.

Leaves: The leaves are 2-6cm long, oblong in shape, thin in texture, occurring mostly on new growth.

Other: The sap is copious and milky, and stout sharp spines occur on the stems.

Last updated: July 2023