Candelabra Cactus
Euphorbia ingens
A tall, tree-like succulent euphorbia with upright branching ridged stems that form a candelabra silhouette. Though cactus-like, it is a spurge with toxic milky latex.
- Light
- Bright light, direct sun
- Water
- Sparingly; dry between waterings
- Difficulty
- Easy
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Overview
Candelabra Cactus is a common name for Euphorbia ingens, a large tree-like succulent from southern Africa whose green, ridged, branching stems rise and divide to form the shape of a many-armed candelabra. Despite the name, it is not a true cactus but a spurge.
Like all euphorbias it bleeds a milky white latex when cut, which is highly caustic and toxic, irritating skin, eyes, and mucous membranes. Small spines line the ridges of the stems.
Indoors it is grown as a striking columnar specimen; in its native range it becomes a substantial tree and is sometimes planted as a living fence.
How to identify it
- Stems: Upright, four- to several-angled green ridged columns that branch upward into a candelabra form
- Spines: Small paired spines along the ridge margins
- Sap: Copious milky white latex when cut (toxic and caustic)
- Flowers: Small yellow-green flowers along the ridge edges in season
- Size: A small tree to 30+ ft in habitat; kept much smaller in pots
- Note: Resembles a cactus but is a Euphorbia, not a true cactus
Care & growing
Light: Bright light with direct sun keeps it sturdy and well-colored.
Water: Water sparingly, letting soil dry between waterings; very drought tolerant and prone to rot if overwatered.
Soil: Fast-draining, gritty succulent or cactus mix.
Temperature: Warm; protect from frost.
Feeding: Light feeding occasionally in the growing season.
Propagation: From stem cuttings; wear gloves and eye protection, rinse the cut to stop the latex, let it callus well, then root in dry mix.
Habitat & origin
Native to southern Africa, including South Africa, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, and surrounding regions, where it grows in hot, dry bushveld, rocky hillsides, and savanna as a prominent tree.
It is cultivated in frost-free climates as a landscape and hedge plant and grown worldwide as a dramatic indoor and greenhouse specimen.
Uses & benefits
Grown as a bold ornamental and architectural specimen, and used as a living fence or boundary marker in its native region.
The toxic latex has been used traditionally as a fish poison and in folk remedies, but it is dangerous and caustic. It is grown chiefly for ornament, not culinary or safe medicinal use.
Frequently asked questions
Is the candelabra cactus a real cactus?
No, it is a Euphorbia (a spurge); it only resembles a cactus through convergent evolution and has toxic milky sap that true cacti lack.
Is the sap dangerous?
Yes, the milky latex is highly caustic and toxic, severely irritating skin and eyes; always wear gloves and protect your eyes when handling it.
How do I propagate it safely?
Take a stem cutting wearing gloves and goggles, rinse the latex from the cut, let it callus for a week, then root in dry succulent mix.
Why is my plant rotting at the base?
Overwatering is the usual cause; let the soil dry fully between waterings and use a very fast-draining mix.
Candelabra Cactus guides
In-depth guides for identifying, growing, and caring for Candelabra Cactus.
