How to prune Euphorbia milii

Cut Euphorbia milii stems to shape branching, open the plant, or remove weak growth. Its milky sap and sharp thorns make skin and eye protection part of the job.

Plant coveredEuphorbia miliiCrown of thorns · indoor and outdoor

Identify the plant part and the reason for removing it

Choose what to remove

Pruning targets the woody or succulent stems and branches of Euphorbia milii. A terminal cut and whole-branch removal serve different purposes. Do not cut leaves or treat a thornless-looking hybrid as sap-free.

Cut stems back to axillary buds to increase branching and compactness, remove whole branches to open the plant, and remove weak or thin branches first to improve structure. These goals do not guarantee flowering.

Decide whether to prune now or wait

Prune at the right time

Cut only the selected part

Make one clean cut

Use a knife that can be cleaned rather than shears that gum up with milky sap. Cut to an axillary bud for branching, or take a weak or whole branch back to its base when opening the plant.

Stop when the pruning goal is met

When pruning will not help

Watch the cut and new growth before pruning again

Care for the plant after pruning

After pruning, keep people and pets away from sap and thorns and clean the cutting tool. No wound-sealing routine, drying period or post-pruning fertilizer schedule is established.

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