African Milk Tree
Euphorbia trigona Tricolor
Tricolor
About this plant
Euphorbia trigona, also known as the African Milk Tree, is a tall, upright succulent with triangular stems edged with small leaves and thorns. It has a striking architectural form and is popular as a houseplant. The plant produces a milky sap that can irritate skin and eyes. It is not a true cactus but resembles one. It is often used as an ornamental plant indoors or in warm climates outdoors.
Taxonomy
- Genus
- Euphorbia
- Family
- Euphorbiaceae
- Higher classification
- Order Malpighiales
- Plant type
- Succulent
- Lifespan
- Perennial
Origin & Distribution
- Native region
- Central Africa
- Distribution
- Native to Central Africa; widely cultivated as a houseplant worldwide.
Care
- Light preference
- Full sun
- Suitable locations
- Indoor, Outdoor, Balcony, Greenhouse
- Preferred window facing
- South-facing, West-facing, East-facing
- Watering frequency
- Rare
- Watering interval
- 14–21 days
- Humidity
- Low
- Minimum
- 10 °C
- Maximum
- 35 °C
- Optimal
- 18-27 °C
- USDA hardiness zones
- 10-11
- Soil pH
- 6.0-7.5
- Soil type
- well-draining cactus or succulent mix
Watering. Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Reduce watering in winter when the plant is dormant.
Fertilizing. Feed with a balanced, diluted fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring and summer). Avoid fertilizing in winter when the plant rests.
Euphorbia trigona is a tough, easy-to-care-for succulent that thrives in bright light and needs minimal watering. Overwatering can cause root rot, so let the soil dry out between waterings. It requires little maintenance and occasional pruning to shape.
Propagation
- Propagation methods
- Cuttings
- Care difficulty
- Easy
Ornamental features
- Flowering
- No
Architectural upright stems with small green and cream leaves and reddish edges; thorny ridges along stems.
Toxicity & Safety
- Toxic to humans
- Mildly toxic
- Toxic to pets
- Mildly toxic
- Weed potential
- Not considered a weed
The milky sap is toxic if ingested and can irritate skin and eyes. Keep away from children and pets.
Allergy information
- Allergy risk
- Low
- Allergy triggers
- Sap or latex, Skin contact
- Pollen level
- Low
Euphorbia trigona can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in some people due to its milky sap. Avoid touching the sap and wear gloves when handling or pruning. Keep it away from children and pets to prevent accidental contact or ingestion.
Common problems
Overwatering can lead to root rot and stem rot. Low light may cause leggy growth. Sap contact can cause skin irritation. Pests like mealybugs may occasionally appear.
Uses
Primarily grown as an ornamental houseplant or garden succulent for its unique shape and easy care.
Notes
Wear gloves when pruning to avoid sap contact. Repot every 2-3 years or when root-bound. Protect from frost and temperatures below 10°C (50°F).