African Milk Tree
Euphorbia trigona Origin: Central Africa
Fast-growing and easy to propagate, this African succulent is often kept as a hedge when grown outdoors in warm climates. It can reach up to 8-feet tall in the wild, and in the right conditions can also grow rapidly in the home. Its long, candelabra-like arms sprout small leaves down the edges, which might be bright green or develop rich red accents later in the season.
Common Issues
Rapidly yellowing leaves: This is most often due to root rot. Inspect your plant’s soil—if its roots are brown and mushy, take action immediately.
Brown tips: Crisp edges and curled leaves are often the result of underwatering or prolonged exposure to sunlight. Move your plant to a shadier spot, or consider transplanting your plant into moist soil in the spring.
Light: Bright light is best for healthy growth. Southern exposures are preferable, but western exposures will also work.
Water: Consistency is key. Allow your succulent to dry between waterings, but don’t let it dry out for extended periods of time. Inconsistent watering can stunt the growing stem.
Humidity: Despite their dry native environment, these succulents benefit from moderate humidity levels in order to stave off pests like spider mites that love dry air.
Growth: These large, sun-loving succulents can reach 3 to 6 feet tall indoors. Their elongated leaves grow between pairs of thorns on the ridges of cactus-like stems that contain a poisonous milky sap. Be sure to always handle with care.
Soil: If you’re a careful waterer, general potting soil will suffice. If you’re a generous waterer, choose a porous mix with lots of sand, perlite, or fine bark.
Temperature: African Milk Trees can withstand cooler weather, but try to keep temperatures between 60-85°F.
Repotting: Succulents generally have small root systems, so repotting shouldn’t be necessary for years at a time. Letting the plant become root-bound is better than over-potting, which can result in issues caused by the root ball sitting in excess soil.
Extra TLC: If your succulent lives near a drafty window, keeping its soil on the drier side will help prevent cold damage.