The African Candelabra is a striking plant, popular for its unique architectural presence and low-maintenance needs. Its distinctive form makes it a favored choice for both indoor and outdoor landscapes.
Understanding the African Candelabra
The African Candelabra is a succulent from the Euphorbia genus. It is often mistaken for a cactus due to its arid adaptations, but it is not a true cactus. This plant features thick, upright, multi-branched stems that create a candelabra-like silhouette, often adorned with spines along its ridged edges. In its native African regions, this tree-like succulent can reach impressive heights. Younger plants or those grown in containers will remain more compact, adapting to their available space. Its robust structure and ability to store water in its stems make it well-suited for arid environments.
Caring for Your African Candelabra
Ample light is crucial for healthy, compact growth. The African Candelabra thrives in bright, direct sunlight, ideally receiving at least six hours daily. While it can tolerate partial shade, insufficient light may lead to stretched, weaker stems.
Well-draining soil is essential to prevent root rot, a common issue for succulents. A specialized succulent or cactus mix provides the necessary aeration and drainage. You can also create a suitable mix by combining potting soil with coarse sand and perlite.
Use the “soak and dry” method, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. During the active growing season in spring and summer, watering every two to three weeks is generally sufficient. Reduce watering significantly in cooler, dormant months to prevent overwatering.
The African Candelabra prefers warm temperatures, ideally between 68°F and 100°F (20°C to 38°C). It is sensitive to frost and should be protected from freezing temperatures. This plant is adaptable to various humidity levels and does not require high humidity.
Fertilize sparingly during the active growing season (spring and summer) with a diluted succulent or cactus-specific fertilizer. A quarter-strength solution applied monthly is often recommended, ensuring the soil is moist before application to prevent root burn. Pruning can manage its size or shape, but extensive shaping is rarely necessary.
Safety and Handling
The African Candelabra contains a milky white sap, known as latex, which is toxic and can cause irritation upon contact. If it comes into contact with the eyes, it can cause severe irritation and even temporary blindness. Always wear protective gloves and eye protection when handling the plant, especially during pruning or repotting. If sap gets on your skin, wash the affected area immediately with soap and water. Keep the plant out of reach of children and pets to prevent accidental ingestion, as it is toxic if consumed.
Propagating African Candelabra
Propagating the African Candelabra is commonly achieved through stem cuttings. Select a healthy, mature stem, ideally four to six inches long, and use a clean, sharp knife to make the cut. Allow the cut end to dry and heal, forming a callus, for several days; this callusing process is important to prevent rot once planted.
Once the cutting has callused, insert it about two inches deep into a well-draining cactus or succulent potting mix. While rooting hormone can assist, it is not strictly necessary. Place the pot in a warm area with bright, indirect light, and water sparingly until roots establish.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Overwatering is a frequent problem, leading to root rot. Symptoms include mushy stems, black spots, or general wilting. To address this, reduce watering frequency, allow the soil to dry thoroughly, and ensure proper drainage. If root rot is severe, consider pruning affected parts and repotting in fresh, well-draining soil.
Conversely, underwatering can cause the plant to shrivel or wrinkle, with stems appearing thin and soft. Gradually increase watering to restore the plant’s turgidity. Yellowing stems can also indicate insufficient watering.
Leggy, stretched, or weak growth typically signals a lack of adequate light. Moving the plant to a brighter location with more direct sunlight will encourage more compact and robust growth. Common pests like mealybugs, spider mites, and aphids can sometimes affect African Candelabras. These can often be treated with organic methods such as rubbing alcohol or neem oil.