Variegated African Milk Tree
Euphorbia trigona 'Variegata'
A tall, succulent-like perennial shrub with upright, three-sided green stems that feature white or pale yellow mottled patterns and small, teardrop-shaped leaves between pairs of thorns along the ridges.
- Light
- Bright, direct sunlight to partial shade; 6-8 hours of direct light is optimal for vibrant variegation.
- Water
- Low water requirements. Water deeply when the top 50-75% of soil is dry, reducing frequency in winter. Drought-tolerant but sensitive to standing water.
- Growth
- Perennial, upright succulent shrub reaching 6-9 feet indoors; fast-growing in ideal conditions with a candelabra-like branching form.
Care instructions
Provide very bright light, even full sun, and allow the substrate to dry out significantly between waterings. Use a well-draining cactus mix and feed sparingly during the growing season.
Growing details
Sunlight
Bright, direct sunlight to partial shade; 6-8 hours of direct light is optimal for vibrant variegation.
Watering
Low water requirements. Water deeply when the top 50-75% of soil is dry, reducing frequency in winter. Drought-tolerant but sensitive to standing water.
Soil
Well-draining, sandy or gritty succulent potting mix with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.1 to 7.8).
Hardiness zone
9b to 11 (25°F to 40°F)
Growth habit
Perennial, upright succulent shrub reaching 6-9 feet indoors; fast-growing in ideal conditions with a candelabra-like branching form.
Bloom season
Rarely flowers indoors; small, inconspicuous flowers may appear in summer on mature plants.
Propagation
Stem cuttings; allow the cut end to callus over for several days before planting in dry soil. Avoid contact with the milky sap.
Common pests & issues
Root rot from overwatering, mealybugs, and spider mites. Stem collapse can occur in freezing temperatures.
Similar species
Euphorbia lactea (Dragon Bones), which has wider, more marbled stems and smaller thorns. It is often confused with Cacti due to the thorns.