Crown of Thorns 'Bonfire'
Euphorbia milli 'Bonfire'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Cactus Succulent
Height
24 inches
Width
18 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
9
Water
Low
Humidity
Low
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Madagascar
Toxicity
All parts are toxic; milky sap is a skin and eye irritant.
The Story
Plant Bio
Succulent, with spiny stems and bright red bracts. It is known for its drought resistance. The Bonfire cultivar features vibrant red bracts that can bloom throughout the warmer months, distinguishing it from other Euphorbia milli cultivars.
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Select a well-draining soil mix for optimal growth.
- Tuck seeds into the soil gently and water lightly.
- Place in a bright location with partial sun exposure.
- Maintain consistent moisture but avoid overwatering.
- Transplant seedlings outdoors after the last frost, approximately 6 weeks.
- Mulch around the base to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
Pro Tip
Use a cactus or succulent mix for best drainage and root health.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water sparingly during the growing season 🌱
- Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot
- Provide bright, indirect sunlight for healthy growth
- Apply a balanced, diluted fertilizer monthly
Don't
- Avoid overwatering, especially in winter ❌
- Don't use heavy clay soil that retains water
- Refrain from exposing to harsh, direct afternoon sun in extreme heat
- Never fertilize during dormancy
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Prune | ||||||||||||
| Winter Prep |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Crown of Thorns 'Bonfire' questions
What zones can Crown of Thorns 'Bonfire' grow in?
Crown of Thorns 'Bonfire' is hardy in USDA Zones 9–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Crown of Thorns 'Bonfire' deer resistant?
Yes — Crown of Thorns 'Bonfire' is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Crown of Thorns 'Bonfire' bloom?
Crown of Thorns 'Bonfire' typically blooms in year-round in warm climates through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Crown of Thorns 'Bonfire' need full sun?
Crown of Thorns 'Bonfire' does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Crown of Thorns 'Bonfire' drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Crown of Thorns 'Bonfire' handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Euphorbia to compare
Flowering Spurge
Euphorbia corollata 'Carolina Snow'
Cypress Spurge
Euphorbia cyparissias
Ruby Spurge
Euphorbia cyparissias 'Fens Ruby'
Myrtle Spurge
Euphorbia myrsinites
Horned Spurge
Euphorbia cornigera
Ascot Rainbow Spurge
Euphorbia x hybrida 'Ascot Rainbow'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Collections featuring this plant
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Crown of Thorns 'Bonfire' with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
