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Euphorbia trigona
Supplied in a 17cm pot
Plant Highlights: Bold upright architectural growth • Distinctive ribbed succulent stems • Drought tolerant once established • Excellent statement houseplant • Easy-care with bright light
Euphorbia trigona, commonly known as the African Milk Tree, is a striking succulent grown for its tall, upright, candelabra-like form. Its three- to four-sided green stems feature pronounced ribs lined with short paired spines, while small leaves appear on fresh growth during the growing season, adding texture to its sculptural silhouette.
Its strong vertical habit makes it an outstanding focal point in bright interiors, complementing both contemporary and minimalist décor. With plenty of natural light, free-draining compost and careful watering, this long-lived succulent develops into an impressive architectural specimen over time.
Creates an instant architectural feature indoors.
Stores water in its stems, making it well suited to busy households.
Long-lived and easy to care for in the right conditions.
Ideal for bright living spaces and sunny conservatories.
Requires only occasional watering once established.
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Botanical Name | Euphorbia trigona |
| Common Name | African Milk Tree |
| Plant Type | Succulent houseplant |
| Foliage | Green ribbed succulent stems with small leaves on new growth |
| Growth Habit | Upright, columnar and branching with age |
| Light | Bright light, including some direct sun |
| Compost | Free-draining cactus or succulent compost |
| Watering Style | Allow compost to dry completely before watering thoroughly |
| Humidity | Average household humidity is suitable |
| Temperature | Warm indoor temperatures; avoid prolonged exposure below 10°C |
| Mature Indoor Height | Approximately 1.5–2m, occasionally up to 2.5m over time |
| Mature Indoor Spread | Approximately 50cm–1m |
Position in bright light with several hours of direct or filtered sunshine each day. A south- or west-facing window or a bright conservatory will help maintain sturdy, compact growth.
Water thoroughly only when the compost has dried out completely, then allow excess water to drain away. Reduce watering significantly during winter when growth naturally slows, and never leave the pot standing in water.
Use a free-draining cactus or succulent compost in a pot with drainage holes to minimise the risk of root rot.
Average indoor humidity is sufficient. Keep in a warm room throughout the year and avoid prolonged exposure to temperatures below 10°C or cold draughts.
Apply a cactus or succulent fertiliser monthly during the active growing season according to the manufacturer's instructions. Do not feed during winter.
Rotate the pot occasionally to encourage even growth and repot only when necessary during spring or summer. Wear gloves and eye protection if pruning or repotting, as damaged stems release a milky sap that can irritate skin and eyes.
Bright living rooms.
Sunny home offices.
Conservatories.
Contemporary and minimalist interiors.
Creating a dramatic architectural focal point.
The white milky sap is toxic and can irritate the skin and eyes. Always handle the plant with care, wear gloves and eye protection when cutting or repotting, wash your hands afterwards, and keep it out of reach of children and pets.
Supplied in a 17cm pot.
Succulent indoor plant.
Best grown in bright light with some direct sun.
Ideal for modern interiors and architectural plant displays.
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