Why is it called African milk cactus?
Why the Euphorbia Cactus is Called African Milk Tree The Euphorbia trigona gets its common name ‘African milk tree’ from the toxic white sap in its stems. Many species of succulents in the genus Euphorbia have this milky latex substance. Cutting or puncturing the plant causes milk to leak.
What is an African milk tree?
African milk tree ( Euphorbia trigona) is native to Central Africa. It is often grown as a hedge due to its rapid and enthusiastic growth. This plant looks a lot like a cactus—hence its nicknames: candelabra cactus, cathedral cactus, friendship cactus, and good luck cactus—but it is actually a succulent plant.
Does African milk tree have invasive roots?
The African milk tree (Euphorbia trigona) is native to Central Africa. It is often grown as a hedge there, useful for its rapid and enthusiastic growth, though its roots are not invasive. Though it looks a lot like a cactus, it is actually a succulent plant.
Can You Grow African milk cactus in the winter?
Protect the African milk cactus from cold drafts in winter. Growing outdoors, the multi-stemmed succulent feels at home in hot, arid climates. You can also plant Euphorbia cactus plants in your backyard if you live in USDA zones 11 and above.
Is a euphorbia a cactus?
The Euphorbia genus of plants is most well-known for its succulent species which are elegant and architectural in appearance. These plants are often mistaken for cacti due to many of the popular varieties being stem succulents.
Do African milk trees have thorns?
The African milk tree has branches that grow upward and produce white sap; it has thorns and small oval-shaped leaves which may be green or, in the case of Euphorbia trigona 'Rubra' or 'Royal Red', a vibrant red. African milk trees can reach up to six feet in height in succulent gardens with ideal outdoor conditions.
Are euphorbia and cactus same?
Both Cacti and Euphorbias have prickles, but they have different kinds of prickles. Cacti have spines, which are modified leaves, and they come from areoles, which are structures that all cacti have. Euphorbias most often have thorns, usually in pairs, which are modified stems. Euphorbias do not have areoles.
Is African milk cactus poisonous?
This plant has high severity poison characteristics. A succulent shrub with milky latex. This is a highly toxic plant; it may be fatal if eaten and also causes severe skin irritation.
Why is it called African milk tree?
Euphorbia trigona, known as the African Milk Tree (because of the milky sap contained in the stems) is an easy-care indoor plant that comes from Africa. In its natural habitat, it grows in dense, thorny thickets.
Can you trim an African milk tree?
Pruning. African milk trees don't need to be pruned but it can be good practice for keeping it from getting too heavy for the shallow root system. If you want to get rid of any stems that are getting in the way, cut them off with a sharp sterilized knife.
What looks like a cactus but isn t?
Euphorbia, also called spurge, is a group of plants that look a lot like cacti. There are many species of this plant, and most of them have spines and also flower. Their spines look very similar to those in cacti, but they don't grow from areoles.
How do I identify a cactus?
You can find out by looking at their leaves. Spines on a leaf will be needle-like and sharp, while non-spiny types have soft edges. Some other helpful clues about your cacti plant would be the color and shape of its leaves.
What is a true cactus?
A cushiony areole, with or without spines, is a sure sign of a true cactus. Source: http://www.krypton.ovh. Cacti have areoles. These are cushiony, fuzzy dots from which spines, stems and flowers grow. They can be white or yellow, but are present on all cacti.
Why is my cactus crying?
Cultivation Problems Oozing cactus plants can be the result of a number of different things. Overwatering, poor drainage, lack of light, too much concentrated sun, and even the type of water you use can all cause tissue damage and release cactus sap.
Can you drink cactus milk?
Is cactus water safe to drink? Cactus is not a safe substitute for potable water. Drinking cactus water on an empty stomach will give you diarrhea or make you vomit, therefore dehydrating you even more. This is because the moisture inside of the cactus pulp is highly acidic.
How long do African milk trees live?
Like a cactus, African milk tree lives a long life and grows vigorously—approximately 1 to 2 feet a year up to 9 feet tall....How to Grow and Care for African Milk Tree.Common NameAfrican milk tree, African milk bushBotanical NameEuphorbia trigonaFamilyEuphorbiaceaePlant TypeSucculentMature Size6-9 ft. tall, 1-2 ft. wide8 more rows•May 12, 2022
Is the white sap from African milk trees toxic?
Yes, the latex-like white liquid is toxic and very irritating to the skin. Thick gloves and eye protection should be worn when handling the plant.
Are African milk trees safe to have around pets?
Most pets will know to stay away from the prickly ridges of the African milk tree. Extremely curious animals that persistently challenge the plant...
Are African milk trees really trees?
No, African milk trees are succulents. The way the stems grow makes them look like cactus trees, which is why they’re named this way.
Is African milk tree poisonous?
This plant has a high level of poisonous potential. A milky latex-producing succulent plant. This plant is highly toxic and can be fatal if consume...
African milk tree turning brown.
It appears as black, corky, gray, or brown regions on the stems, concentrating near the plant's base. It's usually a fungal infection brought on by...
African milk tree medicinal use?
Although toxic and caustic to the skin and mucous membranes, latex has been used internally in the past, primarily to treat internal parasites. To...
Where to buy an African milk tree?
You can now purchase this beauty here at Plantly! Yes, we offer faster transactions online without damaging your plant when delivered! Reach us dir...
What is African milk tree?
African milk trees are a cactus-looking succulent that grows in a tree-like shape. The leaves that grow from the ridges make the plant look like it’s dancing. If you’re looking for a particularly stunning cultivar, check out the Royal Red variety.
How tall do African milk trees grow?
They require minimal care and will grow quickly. They can reach up to 8 ft (2.4 m) tall if you repot them regularly and can be propagated into new plants easily. Originally from Central Africa, Euphorbia trigona looks like a cactus ...
How to propagate African milk tree?
To propagate an African milk tree, start by selecting the stems you want to remove. Use gloves when handling the succulent to protect yourself from the toxic sap and the prickly spines. Start by using a sharp sterilized knife to cut the stem at the base.
What is the most common Christmas cactus?
The most common variety is the Christmas classic, poinsettia. Friendship cactus is a tree-like succulent that is used to make living fences in warm climates or kept as houseplants in places where temperatures go below 55 F. As houseplants, they benefit from dry climates, infrequent watering, and bright sunlight.
Why do African milk plants get rot?
Wet and humid conditions will cause your African milk plant to get stem rot. This is the most common mistake with these succulents, but can easily be avoided by not watering until the soil has dried out.
What temperature do African milk trees need to survive?
Dry, warm temperatures that replicate the desert are best. African milk trees are quite tolerant to heat but won’t survive cold temperatures below 41 F (5 C). In very hot places, the plant should be shielded from the sun during the hottest hours.
Can you water an African milk tree after repotting?
You can sterilize the old soil and use it as the soil base for a new mix (by combining it with compost and perlite, for example). Don’t water immediately after repotting like with other houseplants.
How tall is an African milk tree?
At maturity, the Euphorbia cactus reaches up to 6 ft. (1.8 m) in height.
Why is Euphorbia called African milk tree?
The Euphorbia trigona gets its common name ‘African milk tree’ from the toxic white sap in its stems. Many species of succulents in the genus Euphorbia have this milky latex substance. Cutting or puncturing the plant causes milk to leak. Some people mistakenly call this substance cactus sap.
What temperature do Euphorbia cacti grow?
The Euphorbia houseplant thrives in a room temperature range of between 64°F and 78°F (18°C – 26°C). The minimum temperature that Euphorbia cacti grow is 55°F (12°C). Protect the African milk cactus from cold drafts in winter. Growing outdoors, the multi-stemmed succulent feels at home in hot, arid climates.
How to keep a candelabra cactus red?
If you have the red species of succulent— Euphorbia trigona ‘Rubra’—you will find that plenty of sunshine helps to keep the leaves a deep red color. The candelabra cactus grows best in bright light.
Why are Euphorbia cactus called candelabras?
Also, their shape, like an up-turned candelabra, is a reason why the “trees” are also called candelabra cactus. If you are planning on growing a Euphorbia cactus at home, you don’t have to worry about its enormous height. Growing in a pot helps restrict its indoor growth.
What is the name of the cactus that looks like a cactus?
This species of Euphorbia succulent is popular with many houseplant owners because it looks like a cactus.
How often should I fertilize Euphorbia cactus?
Fertilize Euphorbia cactus with a diluted water-soluble fertilizer for succulents or cacti. Apply the fertilizer solution every three to four weeks during the growing season—spring and summer. Don’t provide fertilizer when the plant stops growing in fall and winter.
African Milk Tree Plant Care Basics
Before we’ll give you the tea about this plant, here’s a little overview of it.
African Milk Tree Varieties and Similar Plants
I bet you want to add other succulents to your collection, right? Well, here at Plantly, we just don’t give you care tips, but we also provide plants that can go with your African MIlk tree.
African Milk Tree Diseases & Pests
As long as it is treated well, African Milk Tree is relatively tough and resistant to disease and pests. However, weak African Milk can be susceptible to:
What is the color of a red African milk tree?
When exposed to intense sunlight, Red African Milk Tree will turn a red or burgundy color. These plants will often lose their red coloring during the winter months or if the plant is kept in shade.
How long does it take for African milk tree to root?
Keep the soil moist (not soaking wet), and the cutting should root in a couple of weeks. SAFETY NOTE: Wear thick gloves when propagating/handling African Milk Tree. This will prevent the skin-irritating sap from making contact with your hands.
What is the name of the tall succulent that grows on the ridges of the stems?
Written by Paige Brue. in. Succulents. Euphorbia trigona, which is commonly known as African Milk Tree or Friendship Cactus, is a tall succulent with a unique appearance. Their leaves grow along the ridges of the plant’s stems. Despite the African Milk Tree’s exotic appearance, this plant low-maintenance as long as it is grown in an environment ...
How much sunlight do African milk trees need?
African Milk Trees grown indoors should be placed next to a south-facing or west-facing window. Ideally, these plants will be exposed to 14-16 hours each day. During the winter months, you may need to supplement natural sunlight with artificial lighting.
Where is Euphorbia trigona native to?
Euphorbia trigona is native to Namibia which is a country in Southern Africa and is the driest country in sub-Saharan Africa. African Milk Tree’s native habitat is arid, and there is an average of 300 days of sunshine per year. Rainfall is very sporadic, and droughts are common.
Why is it important to grow African milk trees in a pot?
Because African Milk Tree is a taller plant, it is important to grow your plant in a pot that contains enough soil to keep your plant upright. For this reason, it is important to put this plant in a container that is fairly tall.
Is African milk tree toxic?
Like other Euphorbias, African Milk Tree has a milky, latex substance that is toxic if ingested. This substance is also a severe skin irritant. For this reason, it is important to wear eye protection and gloves when handling your African Milk Tree.
Description
It has an upright stem and number of branches that also grow upward. The stem and branches can have two or three sides. The stem itself is dark green with V-shaped light green patterns. The 5 mm ( 1⁄4 in) thorns occur in pairs on the stem's ridges. The drop shaped leaves grow from between the two thorns on each ridge.
Cultivation
The trigona can withstand brief cold temperatures of down to −3 °C (27 °F). It prefers sandy soil but can withstand most types of well-drained soil. It can root easily from stem cuttings, if allowed to dry for 3–7 days before planting so that it can form a callus and not rot. It grows to a height of 1.5–3 m (4 ft 11 in–9 ft 10 in).
Chemistry
As with many other Euphorbia species, the latex from the plant is poisonous and can cause skin irritations. It is a pest-free plant. A problem that some trigonas face is that they are susceptible to falling over when fully grown because of their shallow and small root system
Uses
The plant is only known in human cultivation and is commonly used as a house plant. It is used as a ritual plant and a hedge in Gabon.
Why is the African Milk Tree in the shade?
If it’s grown in a place with very hot summers, the African Milk Tree should be located in a spot with indirect sunlight or partial shade, to avoid overheating. Euphorbia trigona doesn’t need any extra humidity and growing it in an environment that’s too humid may cause issues like fungus or pests.
What is the name of the tree that grows in tropical Africa?
In tropical Africa, it is commonly planted as a ritual plant and as a protective hedge near villages. African Milk Tree has attractive green foliage. The succulent’s narrow leaves are highly ornamental and remain green throughout the winter. The Rubra variety is known for its contrasting deep green stems and red leaves.
What is the name of the cactus that is associated with luck?
Euphorbia trigona has many folk names, including friendship cactus, good luck plant, or good luck cactus (the good luck attribution might have something to do with the color green which is often associated with fortune), candelabra cactus, and cathedral cactus. Euphorbia Trigona.
Why do you need gloves when cutting an African milk tree?
Wear protective gloves when cutting because African milk tree sap may cause an allergic skin reaction in some people. The cutting branch will heal over within a few days and a new branch will grow. Euphorbia trigona is hardy and resistant to diseases and pests, as long as it is well-cared-for.
What is the name of the tree that has white sap?
The African Milk Tree is a member of the genus Euphorbia and part of the Euphorbiaceae family. All of these plants exude a white sap when cut or broken. This is a sticky latex, often toxic or irritating to the skin (most cacti have clear sap, rarely irritating to the skin).
How tall do succulents grow?
Outdoors, these big succulents look like trees. They can grow as high as nine feet (2.7 m), in a characteristic “candelabra” shape that gives them the appearance of a sapling.
Where does Euphorbia come from?
Euphorbia trigona, known as the African Milk Tree (because of the milky sap contained in the stems) is an easy-care indoor plant that comes from Africa. In its natural habitat, it grows in dense, thorny thickets. It has also adapted well to indoor spaces and grows healthy and happy in apartments all over the world.
How tall does an African milk tree grow?
How does African milk tree grow? It is known for rapid and enthusiastic growth, and Euphorbia trigona can grow to heights of six to eight feet. The plant has thick, three-sided stalks with spines along its edges and cactus-like branches, or arms, that grow upright from the sides of the stalks.
How to propagate African milk tree?
How to Propagate an African Milk Tree. Using a pair of scissors or garden pruners, cut an arm off at the base of its stalk. Rinse the cut end under running water. Some recommend dipping the cut stem into rooting hormone, waiting a couple of days, and then planting it in special soils, but I have never taken these extra steps.
What is the botanical name of Euphorbia trigona?
Are there other names for Euphorbia trigonia? Its botanical name is Euphorbia trigona. It is sometimes also referred to as African milk bush, African milk tree, candelabra cactus, cathedral cactus, friendship cactus, good luck plant, or good luck cactus.
What pH should I use for a succulent?
The pH of the soil should be from 6.1 (mildly acidic) to 7.8 (mildly alkaline). I use Miracle Grow potting soil for mine and it does just wonderfully.
Can you turn one small African milk tree into many?
You can easily turn one small African milk tree plant into many, especially since sharing it with friends and family is said to bring good luck. Who doesn't like good luck?
How to repot an African milk tree?
Grasp the base of the African milk tree and begin to slowly and carefully pull the plant out of the pot. If you are repotting a tall plant, lay the plant on its side and get one or two other people to help support the plant as you work it out of the pot. Work gently and carefully to avoid damaging the plant.
How to protect yourself from African milk?
1. Put on long sleeves, thick leather gloves and eye protection when handling the African milk plant to protect yourself form the its milky white sap which is both a skin and eye irritant.
Can you disturb succulent roots when transplanting?
Generally, it is best to disturb the root s of succulents as little as possible when transplanting.
