Cultivation methods and precautions of Tigerthorn

Euphorbia milii is a creeping shrub, also known as iron hibiscus and qilin thorn. Its stems are covered with dense, hard and sharp conical thorns. It is native to Madagascar and can now be seen in botanical gardens, courtyards and parks in many parts of my country. Here we talk about the cultivation methods and precautions of Euphorbia milii.

1. Soil

The soil for Euphorbia milii should be loose, breathable and well-drained. You can mix one part of decomposed pine needles , one part of garden soil, and one part of perlite or coarse sand evenly for cultivation. You can also buy special soil for cultivation.

2. Temperature and sunlight

Euphorbia milii prefers a warm, sunny environment. It is slightly shade-tolerant, heat-resistant, but not cold-resistant. Temperatures above fifteen degrees are most suitable for its growth and flowering. If there is sufficient sunlight during this period, the flowers will be brightly colored. If there is insufficient sunlight, the flowers will be dull. If there is no sunlight for a long time, the plant will only grow tall and will not bloom. When the temperature is below fifteen degrees, it must be moved indoors for insulation. If the temperature is below five degrees, it will easily be frozen to death.

3. Watering

Euphorbia milii is relatively drought-resistant and needs to be repotted every spring. During the summer and autumn growing seasons, the plant needs more water and should be watered in a timely manner. Do not water too much in spring, water once every 2-3 days. Summer is the growing season and requires sufficient water. You can water it thoroughly once a day. In autumn, as in spring, water thoroughly every 2-3 days. In winter, strictly control watering and keep the soil dry. In winter, the temperature is low, the leaves fall off, and the plant enters a dormant period. The soil in the pot should be kept dry. During the flowering period of the plant, soil moisture should be kept moderate.

4. Fertilization

It is best to apply fertilizer once a month, and do not apply fertilizer in extremely cold or hot weather, such as summer and winter. When the branches are too crowded and dense, they can be pruned and shaped before new leaves sprout in spring.

5. Reproduction

The main method of propagation of Euphorbia milii is cuttings. Propagation by cuttings is very easy and can be carried out throughout the growing season, but cuttings are best done in May and June. For cuttings, choose branches with full growth and cut them into small sections of 6-10 cm in length. When white latex oozes out of the cut, you can wash it with warm water or smear ash on the cut and leave it for a few days. After the cut is fully dry, insert it into plain sandy soil and keep the soil in the pot slightly dry. It will take about 30 days for it to take root and survive.

That’s it