Skip to main content

Euphorbia trigona imagePhoto: Author Frank VincentzGFDL

African Milk Tree

Euphorbia trigona

Also known as: Euphorbia Trigona, Cathedral Cactus, Abyssinian Euphorbia
Native to Central Africa

A succulent shrub with upright stems and upward-growing branches, featuring triangular or quadrangular stems. Dark green stems display distinctive V-shaped light green patterns with 5mm paired thorns along ridges. Produces teardrop-shaped leaves between thorn pairs. Notable for its architectural form and milky latex sap. Never observed flowering in cultivation, suggesting it may be a sterile hybrid.

Plant Care Overview

Difficultyeasy
LightBright light
WaterAllow soil to dry completely between waterings
Humiditylow

Buy this plant online:

Care Guide

Essential requirements for your Euphorbia trigona

Light & Location

Light Requirements

Bright light

Light conditions can affect leaf color and growth rate. Adjust placement as needed based on your plant's response.

Water & Humidity

Watering Schedule

Allow soil to dry completely between waterings

Humidity Needs

low humidity

Always check soil moisture before watering. Adjust frequency based on your home's conditions.

Temperature & Environment

Temperature Range

Prefers 15-27°C (59-80°F), tolerates brief drops to -3°C (27°F)

Native Climate

Native to Central Africa

Keep away from drafts, heaters, and air conditioners which can stress your plant.

Soil & Nutrition

Soil Type

Sandy, well-draining soil

Fertilizer

Balanced houseplant fertilizer during growing season

Consider repotting every 1-2 years to refresh soil nutrients and accommodate growth.

Propagation

Methods to grow more Euphorbia trigona plants

Stem cuttings dried for 3-7 days to form callus before planting

Plant Info

Characteristics and background information

Plant Characteristics
Native Region

Central Africa

Growth Rate

fast

Mature Size

1.5–3 m (4 ft 11 in – 9 ft 10 in)

Lifecycle

Perennial

Pet Safety
Moderately Toxic

Symptoms: Skin and eye irritation from sap contact. If ingested: vomiting, diarrhea, drooling. Sap can cause blisters and severe eye damage.

Toxic parts: All parts, especially milky sap (latex). Handle with gloves.

Fun Fact

Exists exclusively in cultivation with no known wild specimens, potentially originating as a ancient hybrid

Troubleshooting

Solutions for typical issues with your Euphorbia trigona

Structural instability
Symptoms

Mature plants topple due to shallow root system

Community Tips

Advice shared by other plant enthusiasts

No tips shared yet. Be the first to share your experience!

(Coming soon)

Nurseries Near You

Find Where to Buy Euphorbia trigona

Discover local nurseries near you that may carry this plant. We'll show you store ratings, hours, and directions.