The African Candelabra Tree (Euphorbia ingens, and sometimes Euphorbia ammak or Euphorbia candelabrum) is a striking succulent known for its unique, candelabra-like branching structure. Also called Candelabra Tree, Cowboy Cactus, or African Candelabra, its resilience and sculptural form make it a popular and impressive botanical specimen.
Understanding the African Candelabra Tree
The African Candelabra Tree is a succulent in the Euphorbia genus, not a true cactus, despite sharing visual similarities like thick, water-storing stems. It belongs to the Euphorbiaceae family. Its stems are thick, columnar, and often feature four or five prominent lobes or ridges.
Small, ephemeral leaves appear on new growth but quickly fall off, with the green stems undertaking photosynthesis. Thorn-like structures along the ridges are modified leaves that serve as a defense. The plant produces small, inconspicuous greenish-yellow flowers in clusters, often blooming from autumn to winter or spring to summer.
In its native habitat, this succulent can reach 30 to 40 feet, but indoors, it typically reaches 8 to 10 feet. Native to arid regions of Southern and Eastern Africa, including South Africa, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Ethiopia, Kenya, and Tanzania, the African Candelabra Tree thrives in dry, rocky landscapes. It is well-adapted to harsh conditions, enduring high temperatures, intense sunlight, and low rainfall. Some species, like Euphorbia ammak, are also native to Saudi Arabia and Yemen. Its ability to store water in its thick stems allows it to survive long periods of drought, making it ideal for xeriscaping.
Critical Safety Information
The African Candelabra Tree produces a milky white sap, known as latex, which is highly poisonous and irritating. Contact with the sap can cause severe skin irritation, rashes, and blisters. If it enters the eyes, it can cause intense burning and temporary blindness. Due to its toxic nature, wear protective gloves and eye protection when handling the plant, especially during pruning or propagation. Clean tools thoroughly afterwards. If skin contact occurs, wash the affected area immediately with soap and water. For eye contact, rinse with water for at least 15 minutes and seek immediate medical attention. Keep the African Candelabra Tree out of reach of children and pets.
Caring for Your African Candelabra Tree
Caring for the African Candelabra Tree, whether indoors or outdoors, involves understanding its preferences that mimic its arid environment. This succulent is low-maintenance once established, primarily requiring attention to light, watering, and soil.
Light Needs
The African Candelabra Tree requires abundant direct sunlight to thrive, ideally receiving at least four to six hours daily. In its natural habitat, it grows in full sun to partial shade. Indoors, a south-facing window is an ideal location for bright, direct light. While it tolerates intense sun, prolonged exposure can lead to sunburn.
Watering Practices
Overwatering poses the greatest risk to the African Candelabra Tree, as it is highly drought-tolerant and susceptible to root rot. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. During the growing season, watering every week or two, or when the top few inches of soil feel dry, is sufficient. In winter, during its dormant period, reduce watering significantly, perhaps to once a month.
Soil Requirements
Well-draining soil is essential for the African Candelabra Tree’s health. A specialized succulent or cactus potting mix is recommended, providing necessary aeration and drainage. The soil should have a sandy texture and a low water-holding capacity, preventing waterlogging and root rot.
Temperature and Humidity
The African Candelabra Tree prefers warm temperatures and is not frost tolerant. It thrives in 74°F to 82°F (23°C to 28°C) and should be protected below 50°F (10°C). While it tolerates brief dips to around 30°F, prolonged freezing temperatures can be damaging or fatal. It does not require high humidity and tolerates average indoor humidity levels. Good air circulation is beneficial, especially in humid environments, to prevent fungal issues.
Pests and Diseases
The toxic sap of the African Candelabra Tree makes it resistant to most pests. The primary health concern is root rot from overwatering. Fungal or bacterial infections can also manifest as spots, often encouraged by humid conditions or improper watering. Regular inspection and appropriate watering and sun exposure help maintain the plant’s health.
Propagation and Other Facts
The African Candelabra Tree can be propagated using stem cuttings. When taking cuttings, use clean, sharp tools and handle with caution due to its toxic sap. After making a cut, allow the severed end to dry and form a callus for several days before planting it in a well-draining succulent or cactus mix. This callusing period helps prevent rot. Maintaining minimal moisture in the soil and providing bright, indirect light encourages root development.
Beyond its ornamental appeal, the African Candelabra Tree plays various roles in its native habitats and has historical uses. Its robust nature and ability to grow large make it suitable for use as a living fence in some regions. Historically, its poisonous sap has been used by local communities for purposes such as tipping hunting arrows or stunning fish. Some traditional medicinal uses have been attributed to parts of the plant, though this should be approached with extreme caution. The tree also provides habitat and food for wildlife; its flowers attract pollinators, and its fruits and seeds are consumed by birds and other animals. During severe droughts, black rhinoceros have been observed consuming the plant for its moisture content.