African Milk Tree Plant Care
Euphorbia trigona Mill.
Euphorbia trigona, the African milk tree, cathedral cactus, or Abyssinian euphorbia, is a species of flowering plant that originates from Central Africa. Somewhat common in cultivation as a houseplant or as a hedge, the species is one of the euphorbias with succulent stems and branches as an adaptation to arid climates.
Every 14–21 days
Full sun to partial shade
60–85°F
40–60%
What Is the African Milk Tree?
African Milk Tree (Euphorbia trigona) belongs to the Euphorbiaceae family within the Euphorbia genus. African Milk Tree is native to Central Africa. African Milk Tree is also known as Cathedral Cactus, Friendship Cactus, Milk Bush.
African Milk Tree displays a varies by species, can be upright, sprawling, or clumping growth habit, reaching up to 3 inches tall with a spread of approximately 2 inches. African Milk Tree produces small, often inconspicuous flowers surrounded by colorful bracts.
Leaf size: approximately 4 inches.
How Often Should You Water a African Milk Tree?
Euphorbia trigona requires watering every 14–21 days. Allow the top layer of soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot. Reduce watering frequency during winter when growth slows.
Watering Frequency
Every 14–21 days
Let soil partially dry between waterings
What Light Does the African Milk Tree Need?
African Milk Tree thrives in full sun to partial shade light conditions. The optimal light range is 200–400 lux. Avoid placing African Milk Tree in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.
Light Requirement
Full sun to partial shade
200–400 lux
What Temperature and Humidity Does the African Milk Tree Prefer?
Euphorbia trigona grows best at temperatures between 60°F and 85°F. African Milk Tree prefers humidity levels of 40–60%.
Temperature
60–85°F
Humidity
40–60%
What Soil Mix Works Best for a African Milk Tree?
Well-draining sandy soil mix with perlite and gravel. Good drainage is essential for African Milk Tree to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.
How Do You Repot a African Milk Tree?
Repot every 2-3 years in spring. Choose a pot one size larger than the current container, and ensure it has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.
How Do You Propagate a African Milk Tree?
African Milk Tree can be propagated through stem cuttings, offsets, seeds. Similar propagation techniques also apply to poinsettia plant care, which shares the same genus.
Fertilizing
Every 6 months
During the growing season
Is the African Milk Tree Toxic to Pets and Children?
Toxic to Pets & Children
Mildly toxic if ingested, can cause skin irritation
What Pests and Diseases Affect the African Milk Tree?
African Milk Tree is susceptible to mealybugs, spider mites, aphids. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.
What USDA Hardiness Zone Does the African Milk Tree Need?
African Milk Tree grows outdoors in USDA Zone 9b – 11b. Native to Central Africa, African Milk Tree is adapted to warm climates. In cooler regions, grow African Milk Tree as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.
Hardiness Zone
Zone 9b – 11b
Keep exploring plants
African Milk Tree is one of many species covered in the complete plant care and identification guide, which groups plants by genus, attribute, and popularity.
It belongs to the Euphorbia genus — compare its care with other Euphorbia species on PlantoScan.
African Milk Tree tolerates low-light rooms and shaded spots — browse the full list of low-light plants.
More Euphorbia Species
Other Euphorbia species in PlantoScan's care catalogue share similar watering, light, and soil preferences:
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