African Milk Tree Care Instructions
Scientific Name: Euphorbia Trigona
Synonyms: Cathedral Cactus, Abyssinian Euphorbia
The African Milk Tree (Euphorbia Trigona) is a striking, architectural succulent known for its tall, candelabra-like stems, distinctive ridges, and intricate patterning. Native to Central Africa, this plant thrives in arid, desert-like environments. Its vibrant green stems are often adorned with sharp thorns and small, tear-shaped leaves that emerge sporadically, adding to its statuesque silhouette.
In its native habitat, the African Milk Tree can grow several meters tall, but when grown indoors, it remains manageable, typically reaching between 1-2 meters in height. Its resilience and low-maintenance nature make it a popular choice for all plant enthusiasts.
As a drought-tolerant succulent, the African Milk Tree prefers bright, indirect light but can handle some direct sunlight. Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings, as overwatering can cause root rot, leaf drop and wet black patches on the stems. It thrives in well-draining cactus or succulent soil. During the winter months, reduce watering even further to mimic its natural dormancy period.
The upright, sculptural form of the African Milk Tree makes it an eye-catching statement plant, perfect for modern and minimalist interiors. Place it in a sleek, ceramic pot to enhance its bold, geometric appearance, or group it with smaller succulents for a striking desert-themed arrangement. Just be mindful of its sharp spines when positioning it in high-traffic areas!
Toxicity: Please note that the stick white sap in all Euphorbia is toxic. Avoid getting this on your hands, and be sure to wash immediately if this occurs. Keep out of reach of pets and children if the thorns don't already deter your munchkins.
African Milk Tree Common Symptoms
- Leaf Loss: This can be a common occurrence in your African Milk Tree during the winter months as the plant goes into dormancy, and they generally grow back in spring. If you find that your plant keeps losing leaves, this is likely caused by extreme temperature fluctuations in the plant's environment. Make sure that your plant is not placed directly in cool drafts or under air conditioning. Other factors can include over or underwatering, so be sure you are checking in regularly and adjust your watering regime where required.
- Black or Brown Spots: The presence of brown or black spots on the stems or leaves may signal fungal infections or pest infestations, necessitating immediate attention to prevent further decline. Inspect your plant closely for any signs of pests and take appropriate measures if found. Fungal or bacterial black spots often result from overwatering, so it's crucial to avoid prolonged periods of soggy potting soil. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Additionally, ensure your plant isn’t positioned too close to a window with direct sunlight, as this can lead to burnt patches on the stems.
- Floppy or droopy stems: A Euphorbia trigona that appears droopy or wilted can be a sign of both overwatering and underwatering. Inconsistent watering can lead to stress, affecting the plant's overall vigour and causing it to lose its upright form. Lack of efficient lighting can also be a cause of drooping stems due to weak growth. Be sure to provide your African Milk Tree with at least 3 to 4 hours of direct sun with bright indirect light for the rest of the day.
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Yellowing or Mushy Stems: This is a clear indication of overwatering. Reduce your watering and be sure to allow the soil to become bone dry before watering again. Cut back any damaged stems to avoid disease setting in, and dab the cut with ground cinnamon to help dry up the sap and create a seal. Be sure to wear gloves.
FUN FACT: Where every the cuts are made, expect possible branching of your African Milk Tree stems. Creating a fuller more structural plant.
- Pests: African milk trees are unlikely to have any pest problems; however, extreme environmental changes or stressors can weaken the plant, making it more susceptible. If pests do arise, be sure to isolate and treat the plant immediately with quality pest control, such as Pyrol or Neem Oil, and fix any environmental factors causing the issue. Check out Identifying and Treating Pests for more detailed pest control advice.
African Milk Tree Care Instructions
- Origin: Native to Central Africa.
- Height: Can grow up to 2 meters indoors and 3 meters outdoors
- Light: Prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate direct light conditions for a few hours (3 hours to 4 hours).
- Water: Water when the potting soil has reached complete dryness. Try planting in terracotta for best results.
- Humidity: thrives in low to moderate humidity. Avoid high humidity.
- Temperature: Prefers temperatures between 15-29°C. Avoid cold drafts and temperatures below 13°C.
- Soil: Use well-draining potting soil such as a succulent potting soil.
- Fertiliser: Feed with a very diluted, balanced liquid fertiliser once a month during the growing season (spring and summer). During autumn and winter, only feed with a weak solution if your plant is still actively growing.
- Pruning: Pruning is not required, though it is best to remove any damaged stems and leaves if they arise. Wear gloves when pruning.
- Repotting: Repot every 3-4 years, or when the roots outgrow the current container. Choose a pot that is 3 cm to 5 cm larger with good drainage holes. Always use fresh soil during repotting to ensure healthy growth. Be gentle with the roots when repotting, and be sure to remove any dead or rotting roots if required. Consider potting into terracotta for a healthy root system. Terracotta is breathable and helps with avoiding overly wet potting mix for long periods.
- Propagation: Propagate through stem cuttings. Cut a healthy stem and allow to standout and dry for 24–48 hours, allowing the would to callous over. Pot cuttings into a well-draining potting mix and place in a warm, bright position. Water lightly once a week. After a few months, you will notice the plant feels resistant when slightly tugging on it as roots have settled in
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