African milk tree - Euphorbia trigona (Care, Characteristics, Invasive, Images)

African milk tree

Also known as: Abyssinian euphorbia

African milk tree (Euphorbia trigona) is a perennial species from Central Africa. African milk tree grows best in sandy soils and can root easily from cuttings. This species produces latex that can be a skin irritant. It is often planted as a houseplant and is used as a ritual plant in Gabon.

Scientific classification

Species

African milk tree (Euphorbia trigona)

Nances, spurges, willows and allies

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Toxic to Humans

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Succulent, Shrub

Plant Type

Late spring, Summer, Early winter

Bloom Time

Late spring, Late winter

Harvest Time

91 cm to 1.8 m

Plant Height

20 cm

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

Red, Pink

Fruit Color

White, Yellow, Green

Flower Color

Green

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of African milk tree

Distribution of African milk tree

Distribution Map

African milk tree is a Central African native plant. It is found in semi-arid disturbed sites and forests. It has been introduced to Bangladesh and India as a garden ornamental.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Human-made habitats, tropical dry forests, disturbed sites, waste areas, roadsides, dry and semiarid environments, moist and dry deciduous forests

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

African milk tree is frequently used as a houseplant for its tall and dramatic shape. In cooler climates, it is necessary to grow it indoors. In warmer areas, it is sometimes used in gardens as a statement or specimen plant, because it can grow as tall as a tree. Cacti, poinsettias, and other succulents make good companions in a desert garden.

Symbolism

Purity, protection and wisdom

Interesting Facts

The toxic, milky-looking sap of african milk tree (which gives it its common name) has been used as a fish poison, a coating for poison arrowheads, and even as a torture method in trials by ordeal.

Name Story

African milk tree: African milk tree got its common name from the white, milky sap it exudes. Like many other Euphorbia species, the sap is actually poisonous and can cause skin irritations. Since it is from central Africa, it is also called the African milk tree.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of African milk tree, including the following common varieties :

African milk tree

Toxicity

All parts of african milk tree are toxic if ingested, leading to severe consequences. Contact with the sap causes severe skin irritation and can result in conjunctivitis or blindness. African milk tree is moderately toxic to cats and dogs; ingestion leads to vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and irritation. It is critical to monitor pets and handle african milk tree with protective equipment.

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Care Guide for African milk tree

Once per month

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Succulent & Cactus Soil

Soil Type

Water: African milk tree is a drought-tolerant plant, thriving in arid environments by storing water efficiently. It requires watering only once every four weeks and benefits from a well-draining soil mix to prevent root rot, mirroring its natural dry habitat.

Fertilize: For optimal growth, african milk tree requires fertilization with succulent-specific food every 2-3 months during spring and summer. Avoid fertilizing in fall and winter. Water african milk tree thoroughly before and after applying fertilizer to aid absorption, and avoid fertilization for newly potted or stressed plants to prevent root burn.

Propagation: African milk tree is a succulent with upright growth and spiny, deep green leaves. Propagation is best done with cuttings from healthy, non-flowering stems. After cutting and allowing the end to callus for several days, plant it in well-draining soil with indirect light, keeping the medium moist but not soggy.

Repotting: Repot the african milk tree every 2-3 years in spring, using a slightly larger pot with well-draining soil. This vertical grower can reach 9 feet (2.7 meters). Water sparingly after repotting to aid recovery, ensuring a consistent care routine for optimal growth.

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