The African Golden Candelabra, Euphorbia ammak, is a striking succulent prized for its architectural form and impressive stature. Its distinctive appearance makes it a popular ornamental plant, adding a bold vertical element to various settings.
Understanding African Golden Candelabra
The plant is scientifically known as Euphorbia ammak and commonly referred to as African Candelabra, Candelabra Spurge, Giant Milk Bush, Ghost Euphorbia, or African Milk Tree. Native to the arid regions of the Arabian Peninsula, specifically Yemen and Saudi Arabia, this succulent is well-adapted to dry environments. It features tall, columnar stems that are typically four-winged, with a unique ribbed structure. The “golden” aspect often refers to the creamy-yellow and pale blue-green variegation found in some cultivated varieties. In its natural habitat, this moderately fast-growing plant can reach 10 to 20 feet, with a stout trunk and upright, branching patterns resembling a candelabra.
African Golden Candelabra Care
Caring for the African Golden Candelabra involves understanding its preferences. Providing the right conditions for light, water, soil, temperature, humidity, and fertilization contributes to its overall well-being.
Light Needs
African Golden Candelabra thrives in abundant sunlight, preferring full sun to bright indirect light for optimal growth and vibrant coloration. Outdoors, it benefits from at least eight hours of direct sunlight daily. Indoors, positioning the plant near a south-facing window or in the brightest possible location. While it can tolerate some partial shade, consistent exposure to bright light promotes a more robust and healthier plant.
Watering
As a drought-tolerant succulent, Euphorbia ammak requires minimal watering, storing moisture in its thick stems. The most effective watering method is to allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings before thoroughly saturating it. During the active growing season in spring and summer, watering every two to three weeks is generally sufficient. In cooler winter months, reduce watering significantly, as the plant enters a dormant period.
Soil Requirements
Well-draining soil is crucial for the African Golden Candelabra to prevent waterlogging and root rot. A specialized cactus or succulent potting mix is ideal, providing necessary aeration and drainage. You can also create a suitable mix by combining potting soil with amendments like perlite or pumice for quick drainage. Using a pot with drainage holes is important.
Temperature and Humidity
This plant prefers warm, dry climates, with ideal temperatures between 65°F and 85°F (18°C to 30°C). It can endure high summer temperatures but is intolerant of frost. Protect it if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C) for extended periods, especially during winter. While adaptable to various humidity levels, Euphorbia ammak thrives in low humidity environments. Avoid misting to prevent fungal issues.
Fertilizing
African Golden Candelabra requires infrequent fertilization. Apply a diluted, balanced liquid fertilizer formulated for succulents once a year in the spring, during its active growing season. Water thoroughly before fertilizing to prevent root burn. Avoid fertilizing during its dormant period in the fall and winter.
Propagating African Golden Candelabra
Propagate African Golden Candelabra through stem cuttings by selecting a healthy branch section that is at least 4 to 6 inches long. After making the cut, allow the severed end to dry and form a callus, which typically takes a few days to a week. This callusing process is important to prevent rot once the cutting is planted. Once a callus has formed, plant the cutting about an inch deep into well-draining succulent or cactus soil. Water sparingly until new roots have developed. Propagate during warmer growing months.
Common Problems and Solutions
Root rot, typically from overwatering or inadequate soil drainage, is a common issue. Ensure the soil dries completely between waterings and use a well-draining mix to prevent this. Pests like mealybugs, spider mites, and scale can infest the plant. Mealybugs can be removed with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol, while insecticidal soap can manage larger infestations.
Signs of insufficient light include etiolation, where the plant stretches and appears leggy, and discoloration. Moving the plant to a brighter location will help correct these issues. Conversely, prolonged exposure to intense, direct sunlight, especially if the plant is not acclimated, can cause sunburn on its stems. Providing some midday shade in extremely hot climates can help mitigate this. Occasionally, leaf drop may occur due to sudden environmental changes or temperature fluctuations.
Safety Precautions
The African Golden Candelabra produces toxic milky white latex. Contact with this sap can cause skin irritation, rashes, and blistering. Contact with eyes can cause severe damage or blindness. Ingesting any part of the plant or its sap can cause digestive upset. When handling Euphorbia ammak, particularly during pruning or propagation, wear protective gloves, long sleeves, and eye protection. Immediately wash affected skin with soap and water if contact occurs. Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets.