Euphorbia trigona: Complete care guide, tips, and interesting facts

What is Euphorbia trigona? Origin, names, and interesting facts

Euphorbia trigona It is a perennial succulent plant, appreciated worldwide for its unique beauty and ease of cultivation. It is commonly known as African milk tree, cathedral cactus or simply milk plant. Although it is often mistaken for a cactus due to the shape of its stems and thorns, it belongs to the family Euphorbiaceae and it is not a real cactus.

This species is native to southwest Africa, especially in areas with a warm, dry climate. Its appearance is notable for its erect stems of deep green color, branched and decorated with oval leaves and small thornsOne of its most popular variants is the Euphorbia trigona rubra, whose reddish tones on stems and leaves vary depending on exposure to sunlight.

Euphorbia trigona is very hardy, so much so that it usually adapts perfectly as an indoor and outdoor plant. Its growth is relatively fast when it receives the proper care and can reach heights of between 1 and 2 meters in a pot, and up to 3 meters if it is planted in the ground and the conditions are ideal.

When its stems are cut, the plant releases a milky white latex which gives it the name "milk plant". This latex is characteristic of all euphorbias and is considered toxic and irritating, so it is always recommended to handle the plant wearing gloves.

Main characteristics of Euphorbia trigona

• Scientific name: Euphorbia trigona
• Common names: African milk tree, Cathedral cactus, Milk plant
• Family: Euphorbiaceae
• Origin: Southwest Africa, mainly hot and dry areas
• Location: Interior and exterior
• Level: 1-2 meters in pot, up to 3 meters in ground
• Stems: Succulent, erect and with prominent ribs, covered with spines and small leaves
• Varieties: Green and reddish
• Sap: Milky white latex, toxic and irritating to the touch
• Flowers: Rare in cultivation, small and white/yellow in their natural habitat
• Resistance: Very resistant to drought, adapts to different environments

The genus Euphorbia is one of the largest in the plant world, with about 2000 accepted speciesThis diversity explains why some euphorbias resemble cacti and others have completely different forms, from tall shrubs to small ornamental plants. In fact, Euphorbia trigona is highly valued in decoration for its distinctive vertical structure and decorative leaves, both in homes and offices and gardens.

Light and location: Where to place your Euphorbia trigona?

One of the keys to successful care of Euphorbia trigona is to provide it with lots of natural light, although prolonged exposure to it should always be avoided intense and direct sun, especially during the middle of the day and in very hot climates. Intense but filtered light allows the plant to maintain its vibrant color and grow vigorously.

Indoors, the best location is near a large and bright window where the light reaches indirectly, or receiving a few hours of soft sun a day, preferably in the morning or at dusk. If you notice that the plant presents Brown spots or loses leaves, it may be a sign of excessive direct sunlight.

Outdoors, can be placed on terraces, patios or gardens that are protected from the strongest sun exposure. Ideally, it should be in semi-shadow or receive filtered light under other plants or structures.

If grown in cold areas or with harsh winters, it is recommended grow it in a pot to be able to move it indoors when temperatures drop. Temperatures below 10-12 ° C can damage the plant or cause its death.

Ambient temperature and humidity

Euphorbia trigona prefers warm environments, with ideal temperatures between 20 and 28 ° CIt has difficulty tolerating sudden temperature changes and cold environments. In winter or on cool nights, it is advisable to keep it sheltered.

Regarding humidity, this species adapts well to dry environments, but it is important to avoid prolonged exposure to cold or very dry air currentsIf the leaves dry out or appear wrinkled and brittle, it may be due to an excessively dry environment, but it should never be compensated by overwatering.

Watering: How often should you water Euphorbia trigona?

Like many succulents, Euphorbia trigona tolerates drought better than excess humidity. Irrigation should be moderate and spaced, adapting to the season and environmental conditions:

• Spring and summer: Water only when the substrate is completely dry. Depending on the climate, this may mean watering weekly or biweekly.
• Autumn and winter: Reduce watering to a minimum, sometimes just once a month, depending on the dryness of the environment and the substrate. The plant enters a dormant period and requires very little water.

Is always preferable to err on the side of watering too little than excess. The main risk associated with inadequate irrigation is the root rot and the appearance of mushroomsBefore watering, dip your finger into the soil: if you still notice moisture a couple of centimeters deep, wait a few more days.

A very useful trick is to use flower pots with drainage holes or add an extra layer of drainage material to the bottom to prevent dangerous puddles.

Ideal substrate and transplant

For Euphorbia trigona to develop properly, it needs a very loose, aerated substrate with excellent drainageUniversal substrates are too compact, so it's a good idea to prepare a special mix for cacti and succulents. An effective recipe might include:

• 2 parts of black earth (quality topsoil)
• 1 part of solid humus (providing some nutrients)
• 3/4 parts of gross sand (river sand is better, never beach sand due to its high salt content)
• 1/2 part of vermiculite (improves aeration and drainage)
• 1/2 part of perlite (increases drainage and lightness of the substrate)
• 1/2 part of charcoal (prevents fungi and improves substrate structure)

You can also add small stones or gravel to further ensure drainage. If you don't want to prepare the mix, there are special substrates for cacti and succulents that already combine the necessary porosity and nutrients.

El transplant should be done every 2-3 years or when you notice roots poking out of the holes in the pot. The best time to transplant is at the beginning of spring, as the plant will then begin its active growth period. During transplantation:

1. Prepare a new, larger pot with a drainage layer at the bottom.
2. Add the appropriate substrate mix.
3. Carefully remove the plant (wear gloves) and remove any old substrate from the roots if necessary.
4. Plant the Euphorbia trigona and top it off with a layer of gravel or decorative stones.

Fertilization and fertilization: keys to healthy growth

La Euphorbia trigona It is not particularly demanding in nutrients, but appreciates a contribution of fertilizer during the growing season (spring and summer). Use specific liquid fertilizer for cacti and succulents, dosed every 3-4 weeks, always diluted in the irrigation water and never on dry substrate to avoid root burns.

Avoid fertilizing during the fall and winter, as the plant is dormant and does not absorb nutrients effectively.

Propagation of Euphorbia trigona: cuttings and seeds

La simplest and most successful way Euphorbia trigona is propagated by stem cuttings. Propagation by seed is possible during the summer, but it is not common or as easy under domestic conditions. The process for cuttings is as follows:

1. Use scissors or a sharp, disinfected knife. Select a healthy stem to cut a segment of at least 10-15 cm.
2. Protect your hands with gloves, since abundant white latex will flow from the wound.
3. Let the cut air dry for 2-3 days until a scab forms on the wound. This prevents the entry of fungi and facilitates healing.
4. plant the cutting in a dry, aerated cactus substrate. Water lightly after a week, and continue with a very sporadic watering regimen until you notice that it roots and begins to sprout.

As the cuttings develop roots, they begin their characteristic vertical growth. It's advisable to support newly planted cuttings with small sticks to keep them upright until they become established.

Common problems, pests and diseases

La Euphorbia trigona It's a hardy plant, but it's not immune to some problems if its needs aren't properly cared for. Some of the most common problems include:

• Root rot and soft base: A direct consequence of overwatering or waterlogging. It is usually observed when the base of the stem becomes soft and brown, and the plant wobbles or falls over.
• Dry and wrinkled leaves: It can be caused by either a prolonged lack of water or an excessively dry atmosphere.
• Brown spots or burns: excessive exposure to direct sunlight.
• Common pests: whitefly (flying insect that weakens the plant), mealybugs (small cottony balls on stems and leaves), red spider (causes yellowish spots and general decline) and mildew (fungus that appears in high humidity).

To combat pests, use specific products for succulents, removing visible insects and, if possible, increasing ventilation and reducing watering.

If your plant suffers from rot or severe damage at the base:

1. Cut the damaged part until you reach healthy tissue.
2. Let the cut dry for several days before replanting the cutting.
3. Always use disinfected utensils and gloves.

Toxicity and precautions at home

El latex of Euphorbia trigona It is irritating and toxic. It can cause severe skin and eye irritation, and if ingested, nausea, vomiting, and toxic effects. Therefore:

• Keep the plant out of reach of children and pets.
• Wear gloves when handling, pruning, or transplanting the plant.
• Wash tools and hands thoroughly after any contact.

If contact with latex occurs, wash the area with plenty of water and seek medical attention if symptoms are severe.

Decoration and ornamental uses

La Euphorbia trigona It is highly valued as an ornamental plant for its architectural and vertical appearance, making it ideal for:

• Bright living rooms and offices with indirect light
• Patios and terraces in warm climates, protected from the strong sun
• Compositions of succulents and cacti in decorative sets
• Highlight corners of large rooms

If you're looking for plants with similar characteristics, you can explore species in the Euphorbia genus such as Euphorbia pulcherrima (poinsettia), Euphorbia milii (crown of Christ), Euphorbia lactea, or the Euphorbia lactea cristata variety (wavy shapes and striking colors), as well as other indoor cacti such as the Christmas cactus (Schlumbergera) or Senecio rowleyanus (rosary).

Euphorbia trigona is a great ally for those looking for an original, long-lasting and low maintenanceIts hardiness, vertical growth, and ease of reproduction make it a perfect choice for both beginners and experienced gardeners. Its unique beauty and adaptability will add an exotic touch to any room, as long as you follow some basic guidelines regarding lighting, substrate, and watering, remembering the importance of taking precautions with its latex.