African Milk Bush - Euphorbia umbellata (Care, Characteristics, Invasive, Images)

African Milk Bush

African Milk Bush is rarely cultivated in the United States but is found growing in tropical Africa. The slow-growing succulent produces branches from the base, each one filled with a milky sap. The sap is poisonous is ingested and is also a skin irritant.

Scientific classification

Species

African Milk Bush (Euphorbia umbellata)

Nances, spurges, willows and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Tree, Shrub

Plant Type

Early spring, Winter

Bloom Time

3.5 m

Plant Height

3.5 m

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

7 mm

Flower Size

Evergreen

Leaf type

15 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of African Milk Bush

Toxicity

African Milk Bush is moderately toxic to humans, dogs, and cats. The sap, containing diterpene esters, can cause skin irritation and gastrointestinal distress upon contact or ingestion. Handling african Milk Bush with care and keeping it away from pets and children is crucial. Immediate medical or veterinary care is essential if poisoning is suspected.

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Quickly Identify African Milk Bush

Fleshy green leaves, oblong to elliptical, 4-8 inches (10-20 cm) long, with pinnate venation.

Toxic, milky latex exudes from stems when broken, reaching heights up to 4 feet (1.2 meters).

Inconspicuous flowers with red-rimmed glands, <0.2 inches (0.5 cm) diameter, bloom year-round.

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Care Guide for African Milk Bush

Every 2-3 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

15 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Originating from arid regions, african Milk Bush exhibits drought tolerance and minimal watering needs, thriving in dry conditions. Water once every 2-3 weeks, allowing soil to dry out. As a succulent, african Milk Bush is typically grown indoors to avoid excessive moisture, with metabolism slowing during prolonged dry spells.

Fertilize: For optimal growth of african Milk Bush, apply balanced nutrition fertilizers bi-monthly during spring/summer. Switch to high-nitrogen fertilizers monthly in peak growth. Reduce feeding in fall/winter. Use half-strength and water the soil prior to application. Wear gloves due to the irritating nature of african Milk Bush's sap.

Pruning: African Milk Bush thrives with regular pruning, ideally in early to late winter, to maintain shape and promote bushier growth. Remove dead or damaged sections first, and always wear gloves due to irritant sap. These practices enhance overall health, appearance, and airflow, reducing disease risks.

Propagation: African Milk Bush is propagated through cuttings, requiring healthy stems. Cut a segment, let it callous, and use well-draining soil with moderate light and moisture. Maintain humidity for root establishment, and acclimatize gradually to outdoor conditions for optimal growth.

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