African milk tree care guide
Euphorbia trigona
Quick answer
Water your African milk tree when the top 5 cm (2 in) of soil feel dry. In summer that’s typically every 11 to 17 days.
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- Light
- Bright light, some sun
- Typical interval
- Every 11 to 17 days · summer
Every 24 to 36 days, sometimes less · winter - Climate
- 18–29 °C (64–84 °F)
- Humidity
- 30–60%
- Pet safety
- Toxic to cats and dogs
When and how to water
5 cm (2 in)
- Summer · Jun–AugEvery 11 to 17 days
- Winter · Dec–FebEvery 24 to 36 days, sometimes less
Use room-temperature water and let any excess drain. Never leave the pot sitting in standing water.
Adjust the timing for the light at the plant, the pot’s size and material, and the humidity indoors. Terracotta dries faster than glazed ceramic.
Light and placement
Bright light, some sun
African milk tree needs bright light and a little gentle direct sun, such as morning sun. Strong midday sun can scorch the leaves. Place it close to an east- or west-facing window.
Feeding
Feed your African milk tree every 30 days while it’s actively growing. Use a cactus and succulent fertilizer, which is lower in nitrogen, at half the strength on the label, and only on soil that’s already damp.
When growth pauses, skip the fertilizer and let it rest.
Temperature & humidity
Climate18–29 °C (64–84 °F)
Humidity30–60%
During leafy growth, aim for 18–29 °C (64–84 °F). For routine indoor care, keep it above about 7 °C (45 °F) and avoid cold drafts. This is a care guideline, not an exact damage threshold. Cooler overwintering depends on the species and its rest conditions.
It does best at 30–60% humidity. It doesn’t need misting.
Toxic to pets?
Yes. Keep it out of reach.
Wear gloves when you cut or repot it. Keep the sap away from your eyes and skin, and wash your hands afterwards.
Pet-safety information in the JungleBook uses NC State Extension Plant Toolbox where available. It is reference information, not veterinary advice. NC State Extension Plant Toolbox lists the whole Euphorbia genus, so this applies to every Euphorbia species, including this one.
Pet-safe alternatives with similar light
Common questions
How often should I water an African milk tree?
Water your African milk tree (Euphorbia trigona) when the top 5 cm (2 in) of soil feel dry. In summer, that’s typically every 11 to 17 days. In winter, slow down to every 24 to 36 days, sometimes less.
Sources3 references
- Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew: Plants of the World OnlineTaxonomy · accepted name · classification
- North Carolina State University Extension Gardener Plant ToolboxBright indirect indoor light · cactus mix · surface dry-down · 65–85°F · air circulation · pests · root rot · milky sap and spines
- Royal Horticultural SocietyFull sun or partial shade · loam/sand · well-drained · drought resistance · H2 · harmful sap and pests
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