Christ's thorn
Paliurus spina-christi · Rhamnaceae
The gardener's calendar
In autumn, ease off feeding and take the chance to clean up around christ's thorn and prepare for winter.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Flowering
- Summer (July-August)
- Mature size
- 2 to 4 m in height and width
- Growth
- Moderate
- Hardiness
- Hardy to -15°C
- Origin
- Mediterranean Basin, Near East
- Soil type
- Chalky, well-drained, drought-tolerant
Care
Sunlight
Plant your Paliurus in full sun for optimal growth and abundant flowering. It tolerates partial shade but will thrive less there. This plant appreciates sheltered locations away from cold winds but dislikes stagnant humidity.
Watering
Water regularly during the first year after planting to establish the roots well. Once established, Paliurus is very drought-tolerant and requires little watering. During periods of intense heat, occasional watering is sufficient.
Soil and planting
Choose chalky, light, well-drained soil. Paliurus tolerates poor soils and dislikes waterlogging. Amend with compost if necessary at planting time and check drainage.
Pruning and structure
Prune lightly after flowering to maintain a compact, airy shape. Remove dead or diseased branches in late winter. Paliurus tolerates pruning well but only do it if necessary.
Fertilizing
A moderate application of balanced fertilizer in spring is more than enough. On poor soil, well-decomposed compost spread on the surface in early spring will stimulate growth.
Diseases and pests
Paliurus is generally very resistant. Ensure proper drainage to prevent root rot. No major pests regularly affect this species in temperate climates.
Did you know?
Paliurus owes its scientific name spina-christi (thorn of Christ) to an ancient Christian legend: its sharp thorns are said to have been used to weave the crown of thorns. In the East and around the Mediterranean, this plant held strong symbolic and spiritual significance long before being cultivated as an ornamental.
Where to buy it
Best planted in autumn so the roots settle in before summer, or in early spring once the frost has passed. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, October, November.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- Alder buckthornFrangula alnus
- BuckthornRhamnus alaternus
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- Indian jujubeZiziphus mauritiana
- BlueblossomCeanothus thyrsiflorus
- Feltleaf ceanothusCeanothus arboreus
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.