African milk trees have triangular stems with three distinct sides seamed with ridges.

The ridges are peppered with thorns and teardrop-shaped leaves.

This plant stays lush and green throughout its growing season, with new growth sprouting a light green hue.

It is often grown as a hedge due to its rapid and enthusiastic growth.

When grown indoors, this plant will only grow to about half of its maximum height.

Like all Euphorbia (spurges), the African milk tree is toxic to humans and pets.

A southern-facing window works well for indoor growing, as does an outdoor spot that receives partial sun.

An area that receives full sun is suitable, as long as the summers are not consistently hot.

In this instance, extra watering may be needed to offset the hot, bright sunlight.

Soil

This succulent isn’t fussy about its soil.

Still, good drainage conditions are essential.

Amend heavy clay soil for proper drainage or it may hamper the plant’s growth.

Sandy and sandy loam soils help this plant thrive in a xeriscape environment.

African milk tree grows best with a soil pH of 6.1 to 7.8.

Water

African milk tree doesn’t need much water.

In winter, only provide water to the top inch of soil when it feels dry.

Consider supplemental watering only if you’re experiencing bad drought conditions.

Otherwise, your region’s normal rainfall should be sufficient.

Do not feed it during its dormancy period in the fall and winter.

It has striking maroon or vibrant red leaves.

Pruning

African milk tree grows very tall and has a comparatively small and shallow root system.

For this reason, older plants may become top-heavy, or even topple over, making pruning a necessity.

When pruning, always wear gloves and use a sharp and sterilized knife to remove stems.

The cut you create will dry over and make a callus on its own.

Propagating African Milk Tree

African milk tree propagates easily from stem cuttings and air layerings.

The cutting should root within two months.

As soon as you see root growth, transplant the plant into a slightly larger, 6-inch pot.

(Try for a diagonal cut to keep moisture from pooling.

Next, wrap the cutting with moist sphagnum moss followed by plastic wrap to maintain the humidity.

Water lightly as the plant starts to grow.

This succulent will do best in a porous clay pot that absorbs excess water.

Repot the plant every year or two as it continues to grow taller.

Overwintering

African milk trees won’t survive the cold.

Potted plants need to be brought indoors when temperatures drop.

Common Pests & Diseases

A healthy African milk tree is usually not susceptible to pests or diseases.

However, watch for the cotton-like threads made bymealybugs.

Overwatering your plant can cause fungal problems, such as cork disease, where the stems develop cork-like patches.

Try saving the plant by cutting off the infected stems.

Yellowing or browning of the succulent may also indicate root rot from overwatering.

In this case, you will likely need to dispose of your plant entirely.

Doing so can cause yellow and wilted leaves.

They prefer arid climates where the temperature does not drop below 45 degrees Fahrenheit.

Rojas-Sandoval J.Euphorbia Umbellata (African Milk Bush).

Keep Away From Spurge Sap.

National Capital Poison Center.