African Milk Tree Care Guide: How to Grow an African Milk Tree

The African milk tree (Euphorbia trigona) is a succulent plant native to Central Africa. It is known by many other names, including candelabra cactus, cathedral cactus, good luck cactus, and friendship cactus—even though it isn’t a cactus plant, but rather a tall-growing, multi-branch succulent.

The African milk tree has branches that grow upward and produce white sap; it has thorns and small oval-shaped leaves which may be green or, in the case of Euphorbia trigona ‘Rubra’ or ‘Royal Red’, a vibrant red. African milk trees can reach up to six feet in height in succulent gardens with ideal outdoor conditions. As an indoor plant, the African milk tree grows slowly, making it an ideal low-maintenance houseplant.

When it comes to growing and caring for the African milk tree, it’s all about watering sparingly, keeping bugs away, and fertilizing.

1. 1. Choose a terracotta or clay pot. A porous clay pot that hasn’t been glazed will help absorb extra water and minimize the risks of overwatering.
2. 2. Use well-draining soil. Sandy soil or a potting mix formulated for cacti will allow for better water drainage. You can also add pumice or perlite to potting soil to improve its ability to drain water.
3. 3. Give the plant ample sunlight and air circulation. African milk trees can scorch with too much bright light, so place your plant in a spot that gets a mix of full sun and partial shade throughout the day. Ample light and air circulation will help prevent root rot.
4. 4. Water sparingly. Once these drought-tolerant plants are established, water them once a week or when the top layer of soil dries out. Overwatering can lead to root rot.
5. 5. Keep an eye out for pests and disease. Mealybugs can become an issue for African milk trees. If you spot these pests, remove them with a cloth dipped in diluted dish soap or wash them off with a strong spray of water.
6. 6. Fertilize the plant during the growing season. You’ll want to feed your African milk tree water-soluble fertilizer once a month during the spring and summer.

The white, milky sap of the African milk tree is toxic and can irritate the skin and eyes. Be cautious when handling the plant, and consider wearing protective gloves. Wash your hands immediately after pruning, and keep the plant away from children and pets.

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