An upright branching succulent with three-sided green ridged stems lined with small paired spines and teardrop leaves, exuding an irritant milky sap. A fast architectural feature, often mistaken for a cactus.
At a glance
- Plant type: Succulent
- Mature size: 2 m H × 60 cm W
- Aspect: full sun and part shade or morning sun
- Water: very drought tolerant once established
- Frost: tender
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About African Milk Tree
Euphorbia trigona is a moderate-growing succulent in the Euphorbiaceae family. It reaches around 2 m tall and 60 cm wide at maturity, with evergreen foliage.
Where to grow African Milk Tree
African Milk Tree suits arid and semi-arid, warm-temperate and subtropical climates and grows best in full sun and part shade or morning sun. It is frost tender, so protect it from hard frosts or grow it in a sheltered spot or pot. It also is a genuinely water-wise choice.
Soil & planting
African Milk Tree does best in sandy and free-draining soil. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
African Milk Tree is very drought tolerant once established, so once its roots are down it needs little supplementary water. A feed in spring with a balanced fertiliser keeps growth strong. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
Pruning & care
Tip-prune African Milk Tree in spring to maintain a dense, shapely habit. Overall it is low maintenance.
Using African Milk Tree in the garden
African Milk Tree earns its place for pots and courtyard containers and a feature or specimen planting. It is equally at home in the ground or a large pot on a balcony or courtyard.
Companion planting & design
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair African Milk Tree with other plants that enjoy the same very drought tolerant and arid and semi-arid climate. Group three or five together for impact rather than dotting single plants through the garden.
Good to know
Note that it is toxic to cats and dogs, so site it away from pets that chew. It is thorny — useful as a barrier, but wear gloves when pruning.
Buying African Milk Tree
Plant Sale lists African Milk Tree as potted plants. Stock isn't live yet — register your interest using the panel above and we'll email you the moment it lands.