Candelabra Tree
Euphorbia ingens
Ingense
About this plant
Euphorbia ingens, commonly called the Candelabra Tree, is a tall succulent that looks like a cactus with upright, ribbed branches resembling a candelabra. It has a striking architectural form and produces small yellow-green flowers. Native to southern Africa, it is popular as an ornamental plant in warm climates and indoors as a large houseplant. Its milky sap is toxic and can irritate skin and eyes.
Taxonomy
- Genus
- Euphorbia
- Family
- Euphorbiaceae
- Higher classification
- Order Malpighiales
- Plant type
- Succulent
- Lifespan
- Perennial
Origin & Distribution
- Native region
- South Africa, Mozambique, Zimbabwe
- Distribution
- Native to southern Africa; cultivated in warm regions worldwide as an ornamental plant.
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
- 5 °C
- Maximum
- 40 °C
- Optimal
- 18-30 °C
- USDA hardiness zones
- 9-11
- Soil pH
- 6.0-7.5 (neutral to slightly acidic)
- Soil type
- well-draining sandy or cactus potting mix
Watering. Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Overwatering can cause root rot. Reduce watering in winter when the plant is dormant.
Fertilizing. Feed lightly during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced, diluted fertilizer every 4-6 weeks. Avoid fertilizing in winter when the plant is dormant.
Euphorbia ingens is a tough succulent tree that thrives in bright sunlight and dry conditions. It needs well-draining soil and infrequent watering to prevent root rot. Watch out for its irritating sap when pruning or handling. Overall, it requires moderate care and is fairly forgiving if you avoid overwatering.
Propagation
- Propagation methods
- Cuttings, Seeds
- Care difficulty
- Medium
Ornamental features
- Flowering
- Yes
- Flowering period
- spring
Architectural upright succulent branches with ribbed stems, small yellow-green flowers, and a striking candelabra shape.
Toxicity & Safety
- Toxic to humans
- Mildly toxic
- Toxic to pets
- Mildly toxic
- Weed potential
- Not considered a weed
The sap is toxic and can cause skin irritation and eye damage. Keep away from children and pets. Wash skin immediately if contact occurs.
Allergy information
- Allergy risk
- Low
- Allergy triggers
- Sap or latex, Skin contact
- Pollen level
- Low
Euphorbia ingens produces a milky sap that can irritate the skin and eyes. People sensitive to plant latex or with latex allergies should handle it carefully, wearing gloves. Avoid contact with the sap to prevent redness or itching. Keep it away from children and pets to reduce accidental exposure.
Common problems
Overwatering can cause root rot and stem rot. Sap exposure may cause skin irritation. Pests like mealybugs or spider mites can occasionally appear.
Uses
Used as an ornamental plant for its unique shape and drought tolerance. Sometimes grown indoors as a large houseplant or outdoors in warm climates.
Notes
When pruning or repotting, wear gloves and eye protection to avoid contact with the toxic sap. Repot every 2-3 years or when root-bound. Protect from frost and cold drafts.