African Milk Tree
Euphorbia trigona
Trigona
About this plant
Euphorbia trigona, commonly known as the African Milk Tree, is a tall, upright succulent with triangular stems edged with small thorns and small leaves. It has a striking architectural form and is popular as a houseplant or in warm outdoor gardens. The plant produces a milky sap that can irritate skin and eyes. It is native to Central Africa and is often used as an ornamental plant for its unique shape and easy care.
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, especially in warm climates.
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
- 18-26 °C
- USDA hardiness zones
- 9-11
- Soil pH
- 6.0-7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
- 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 is dormant.
Euphorbia trigona is a tough, drought-tolerant succulent that thrives with minimal care. It prefers bright light and well-draining soil. Overwatering can cause root rot, so water sparingly and allow soil to dry between waterings. It requires little maintenance and occasional pruning to keep its shape.
Propagation
- Propagation methods
- Cuttings
- Care difficulty
- Easy
Ornamental features
- Flowering
- No
Distinctive upright triangular stems with small thorns and sparse leaves; architectural and sculptural form.
Toxicity & Safety
- Toxic to humans
- Mildly toxic
- Toxic to pets
- Mildly toxic
- Weed potential
- Not considered a weed
The milky sap is toxic and can cause skin irritation or eye damage. 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 the plant. Keep it away from children and pets to prevent accidental contact or ingestion.
Common problems
Overwatering can lead to root rot and yellowing leaves. Insufficient light may cause leggy growth. Sap contact can cause skin irritation.
Uses
Primarily grown as an ornamental plant for indoor or outdoor decoration due to its unique shape and low maintenance needs.
Notes
Be careful when pruning or repotting to avoid contact with the sap. Use gloves and wash hands afterward. Repot every 2-3 years or when root-bound.