Euphorbia ingens

Euphorbia ingens

Candelabra Tree

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Taxonomy

Common Names

Candelabra TreeNaboom

Context

nativeRegion

Southern Africa (Botswana, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, South Africa).

usdaZones

Zones 9b-11; must be protected from frost.

companionPlants

Aloe species, Agave, Other drought-tolerant succulents

culturalUses

Used ornamentally; sap traditionally used in some regions for medicinal or ritual purposes (with caution due to toxicity).

Care

LightPrefers full sun to light shade; best growth occurs in bright, direct light.

WateringAllow soil to dry out between waterings; water sparingly as overwatering can cause root rot.

SoilWell-draining, sandy or cactus mix soil is ideal.

FertilizerFeed monthly during the growing season with a diluted cactus or succulent fertilizer.

HumidityTolerates low humidity and prefers dry air; does not require extra humidity.

TemperatureThrives in warm temperatures (18-27°C / 65-80°F); protect from frost.

HabitTree-like succulent with columnar, branching stems often resembling a cactus.

Mature SizeUp to 12 meters (40 feet) tall in habitat; much smaller in containers.

Growth RateModerate to slow growth rate.

BloomingSmall, yellow-green flowers (cyathia) appear at stem tips, usually in late winter to spring.

DormancyHas a winter dormancy period with reduced growth.

MethodsStem cuttings (most common), Seeds (less common)

DifficultyEasy from cuttings; more challenging from seed.

Best SeasonSpring to early summer for best results.

PruningPrune to control size and shape or remove damaged stems, but wear gloves due to toxic sap.

RepottingRepot every 2-3 years or when rootbound; use gloves.

Pests & DiseasesGenerally resistant but may attract mealybugs or scale; root rot possible with excess moisture.

ToxicityHighly toxic; milky sap can cause skin irritation and is poisonous if ingested.

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