African Milk Tree
euphorbia trigona
Also known as: ["Candelabra Plant","Sticks on Fire"]
Overview
A succulent plant with upright, columnar stems and green leaves, native to Central Africa.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","low maintenance","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Euphorbiaceae |
| Genus: | Euphorbia |
| Botanical Name: | Euphorbia trigona |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, indirect light or outdoor in sheltered, partially shaded area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogged roots.
- Soil Type: Well-draining cactus or succulent mix with added perlite or coarse sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 6–12 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate direct sunlight but acclimate gradually to avoid scorching. Adjust exposure seasonally.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate to direct sun slowly over 1–2 weeks; place in bright indirect light if direct sun is unavailable; avoid prolonged exposure to intense midday sun.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
bright indirect light to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh sunlight; move outdoors in spring/summer for optimal light.
Watering
every 10–14 days during active growth, every 4–6 weeks in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries out completely between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-draining cactus or succulent mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use pots with drainage holes; avoid overwatering; top-dress with gravel for extra drainage; replace soil every 2–3 years.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but avoid prolonged exposure to extreme temperatures.
Avoid drafty areas; protect from frost; maintain consistent temperatures; adjust watering in extreme heat/cold.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during active growth with balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize only during active growth; dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; stop feeding in dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings; leaf cuttings can also be used but are less common.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Cut a healthy stem.
- Let it callus for 1–2 days.
- Plant in medium.
- Water sparingly.
- Provide warmth and indirect light.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain temperatures around 70–75°F (21–24°C).
Medium
Well-draining mix of cactus soil and perlite or sand; can also root in water for a short period.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 1–3 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife or scissors, rooting hormone (optional), pot, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Allow cuttings to callus before planting; use clean tools to prevent infection; maintain humidity for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems just above a node or leaf junction; remove damaged or leggy growth.
Pruning Plan
Prune to control size, encourage bushier growth, or remove damaged stems. Focus on maintaining shape and health.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves, disinfectant (e.g., rubbing alcohol).
Checklist
Wear gloves; sterilize tools; cut at an angle; dispose of trimmings; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches (2.5–5 cm) in diameter.
Method
Remove plant carefully; trim roots if needed; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil; handle roots gently; water sparingly post-repotting; place in indirect light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; discard excess water; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Water until it drains from the bottom, then discard excess water to prevent standing moisture.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply every 2–3 weeks during spring and summer; reduce frequency to once a month or less in fall and winter. Allow soil to dry completely between waterings.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, coarse sand, or pumice to commercial potting soil to enhance drainage; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop in cold; scorching, leaf burn, or dehydration in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root damage or rot, especially if soil remains moist.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; ensure soil is dry; use a space heater if necessary; insulate pots in cold climates.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to dehydration, leaf scorch, or wilting, especially if watered improperly.
Solution: Provide shade during peak sun; increase humidity with misting; water deeply but infrequently; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; use diluted fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with stems/leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicEuphorbia trigona is toxic to cats, with the sap causing irritation to the mouth, skin, and gastrointestinal tract. Ingestion can result in significant discomfort and potential systemic effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested or if sap comes into contact with skin or eyes
Dogs
ToxicThe sap of Euphorbia trigona is toxic to dogs, causing irritation to the mouth, gastrointestinal tract, and skin. Ingestion can lead to significant discomfort and potential systemic effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested or if sap comes into contact with skin or eyes
Humans
ToxicThe milky sap of Euphorbia trigona contains diterpenoid phorbol esters and other irritants that can cause severe irritation and inflammation upon contact with mucous membranes or broken skin. Ingestion can lead to gastrointestinal distress and systemic effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested or if sap comes into contact with skin or eyes
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Euphorbia trigona toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water Euphorbia trigona?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings.
Q: Can Euphorbia trigona be grown indoors?
A: Yes, it thrives in bright indoor light with minimal care.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Euphorbiaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | bright indirect light to parti |
| Water: | every 10–14 days during acti |
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