Candelabra Tree
Euphorbia ingens
A large succulent tree with deeply ribbed, angled stems and paired spines, forming a distinct candelabra-like silhouette as it matures.
- Light
- Full sun, requiring at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily
- Water
- Water deeply but infrequently, allowing soil to dry thoroughly; highly drought-tolerant and sensitive to over-watering
- Growth
- Perennial tree-like succulent, reaching heights of 30 to 40 feet in its native habitat with a slow to moderate growth rate
Care instructions
Provide bright, direct sunlight, well-draining soil, and allow the medium to dry out completely between waterings. Fertilize sparingly during the active growing season.
Growing details
Sunlight
Full sun, requiring at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily
Watering
Water deeply but infrequently, allowing soil to dry thoroughly; highly drought-tolerant and sensitive to over-watering
Soil
Gritty, highly porous, sandy or cactus-specific soil mix with excellent drainage and a neutral to slightly acidic pH
Hardiness zone
USDA zones 10 to 11, intolerant of frost
Growth habit
Perennial tree-like succulent, reaching heights of 30 to 40 feet in its native habitat with a slow to moderate growth rate
Bloom season
Spring to summer; produces small, inconspicuous yellowish-green cyathia along the stem ridges
Propagation
Propagated primarily through stem cuttings, allowing the cut end to callous over for several days before planting in a gritty medium
Common pests & issues
Susceptible to root rot if overwatered in poorly draining soil; occasional mealybug infestations
Similar species
Often confused with other large succulent Euphorbias and certain columnar cacti, but distinguished by its specific angled stem ridges and pairing of small spines on tubercles