Euphorbia eritrea

Euphorbia eritrea (syn. Euphorbia erythraeae / Euphorbia abyssinica)

Confirmed format: 24cm (P24) pot

Plant Highlights: Tall architectural stems • Striking cactus-like appearance • Drought tolerant once established • Ideal for bright indoor spaces • Low-maintenance succulent

Overview

Euphorbia eritrea is a dramatic succulent grown for its tall, upright, branching green stems that create a bold architectural statement indoors. Although it closely resembles a cactus, it belongs to the spurge family (Euphorbiaceae) and is valued for its sculptural form rather than its flowers. The angular stems and small paired spines give it a distinctive candelabra-like silhouette that suits contemporary interiors.

Supplied in a 24cm (P24) pot, this slow-growing specimen develops into an impressive feature plant over time. It thrives in bright conditions with a free-draining compost and requires very little maintenance once established, making it an excellent choice for sunny living spaces, conservatories and home offices.

Why We Love It

• Creates an impressive vertical focal point with a distinctive sculptural form.

• Requires only occasional watering once established.

• Ideal for bright, contemporary interiors with plenty of natural light.

• Long-lived and develops greater character as it matures.

• Excellent for collectors of unusual succulents and architectural houseplants.

Plant Details

Attribute	Information
Botanical Name	Euphorbia eritrea (syn. Euphorbia erythraeae / Euphorbia abyssinica)
Common Name	Candelabra Tree
Plant Type	Succulent indoor plant
Foliage	Leafless green succulent stems with small paired spines
Growth Habit	Upright, branching and architectural
Light	Bright indirect light with several hours of gentle direct sun
Compost	Free-draining cactus or succulent compost
Watering	Allow compost to dry completely between waterings
Mature Height	Can exceed 2m indoors over many years
Mature Spread	Approximately 60–120cm, depending on age
Temperature	Maintain above 10–12°C; protect from cold draughts and frost

Growing Guide

Light

Place in a bright position with plenty of natural light. A south-, east- or west-facing window is ideal, where the plant can receive bright indirect light and a few hours of gentle direct sunshine each day. Rotate the pot occasionally to encourage even growth.

Watering

Allow the compost to dry out completely before watering again. Water sparingly, particularly during autumn and winter, as excess moisture is far more likely to cause problems than occasional dryness.

Compost

Grow in a free-draining cactus or succulent compost and always use a container with drainage holes. Never allow the pot to stand in water.

Temperature

Keep in warm indoor conditions throughout the year, maintaining temperatures above 10–12°C during winter. Protect from cold draughts and never expose the plant to frost.

Feeding and Routine Care

Feed lightly with a cactus or succulent fertiliser during spring and summer. Repot only when necessary, as the plant performs well when slightly root-bound. Wear protective gloves and eye protection when pruning or repotting, as the white milky sap can cause severe skin and eye irritation. Avoid touching your face while handling the plant, and if sap comes into contact with the eyes, rinse immediately with plenty of clean water and seek medical advice if irritation persists.

Perfect For

• Bright living rooms.

• Conservatories.

• Home offices.

• Contemporary interiors.

• Collectors of architectural succulents.

Good to Know

Although it resembles a cactus, Euphorbia eritrea is a member of the spurge family rather than the cactus family. Its white latex sap is poisonous if ingested and can cause skin irritation, severe eye irritation or temporary vision impairment if it comes into contact with the eyes. Keep the plant out of reach of children and pets and always handle it with care.

Product Information

• Supplied in a 24cm (P24) nursery pot.

• Indoor succulent with upright architectural growth.

• Best grown in a bright position using free-draining cactus or succulent compost.

• Pot size refers to the container size at the time of sale and not the mature size of the plant.