Identify Guides Care Journal My Plants Plants Tools Blog

African Milk Tree

Euphorbia trigona

Family: Euphorbiaceae Origin: Central Africa Succulent

Identify this plant in the app

Snap a photo — AI Planter identifies it instantly, on your device.

African Milk Tree (Euphorbia trigona)
Photo: Juan Carlos Fonseca Mata · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Care requirements

Wateringevery 3 weeks — Let soil dry completely between waterings
LightBright, direct to indirect
Humidity30%–50% (ideal 40%)
Temperature15–30°C (ideal 22°C)
FertilizerEvery 2-3 months in spring/summer — Balanced 10-10-10 at half strength
SoilVery well-draining cactus/succulent mix (pH 5.5–7.0)

Quick answers

How often should I water African Milk Tree?

Water African Milk Tree every 3 weeks. Let soil dry completely between waterings.

How much light does African Milk Tree need?

African Milk Tree grows best in bright, direct to indirect light.

Is African Milk Tree safe for cats and dogs?

No. African Milk Tree is toxic to pets if chewed or eaten. Typical symptoms: m, i, l, k, y, , s, a, p, , i, s, , t, o, x, i, c, , a, n, d, , i, r, r, i, t, a, t, i, n, g. Keep it out of reach and contact a vet if your pet eats it.

What is the most common problem with African Milk Tree?

Etiolation is the most common problem. Likely causes: insufficient light. What to do: move to a brighter spot; gradually increase sun exposure.

Common problems & fixes

Etiolation

Causes: Insufficient light

Fix: Move to a brighter spot; Gradually increase sun exposure

Yellow leaves

Causes: Overwatering, Poor drainage, Cold drafts

Fix: Reduce watering; Check drainage holes; Move to a warmer spot

Brown tips

Causes: Low humidity, Fluoride in tap water, Underwatering

Fix: Increase humidity; Use filtered water; Water more consistently

Root rot

Causes: Overwatering, Heavy soil, No drainage holes

Fix: Repot in well-draining soil; Allow soil to dry; Trim mushy roots

Pests

Causes: Mealybugs, Spider mites, Scale

Fix: Wipe with insecticidal soap; Isolate the plant; Check new plants before bringing home

Safety

Toxic to petsToxic to humans

Symptoms: M, i, l, k, y, , s, a, p, , i, s, , t, o, x, i, c, , a, n, d, , i, r, r, i, t, a, t, i, n, g

Browse similar

More like African Milk Tree