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
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
Details
Common name: Crown of thorns
Botanical name: Euphorbia 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.