The Euphorbia lactea, also known as the African Milk Tree or Good Luck Plant, is a striking and bold succulent that’s sure to stand out in any space. This beauty is part of the Euphorbia genus, and it’s particularly famous for its unique Royal Red variety, Euphorbia 'Trigona Rubra'. With its green stems and magenta to red leaves, this plant adds a pop of color and texture that will liven up your plant collection.
The African Milk Tree has an upright, tree-like shape with thick, triangular stems that grow tall and can become quite bushy if cared for correctly. The Royal Red variety intensifies this plant’s beauty, as the vibrant red-magenta tones give it a royal, almost magical look, especially in bright light. Whether you’re looking for a low-maintenance statement piece or a unique gift, this plant fits the bill!
How to Care for Your Euphorbia lactea
Light
🌞 Euphorbia lactea thrives in bright, indirect sunlight. A spot near a window with filtered light is perfect. Direct sunlight can scorch its leaves, especially when it’s in its vibrant red phase, so be mindful of placement.
💡 Tip: If the plant starts to become leggy or loses its color, it might not be getting enough light.
Watering
💧 Like most succulents, the Euphorbia lactea is fairly drought-tolerant and doesn’t need frequent watering. Let the soil dry out completely between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so ensure the plant is in a pot with drainage. During the growing season (spring and summer), water about once every two weeks, and reduce watering in the fall and winter months when growth slows.
💡 Tip: When watering, pour the water at the base of the plant and avoid wetting the leaves.
Soil
🌱 A well-draining cactus or succulent mix works best. This plant doesn’t like to sit in soggy soil, so make sure your pot has good drainage. You can also add perlite or sand to your soil mix to enhance drainage.
Temperature & Humidity
🌡 Euphorbia lactea enjoys warm temperatures and should be kept between 60-85°F (15-29°C). Avoid placing it near drafts, air conditioners, or heaters, as sudden temperature changes can stress the plant. It is quite heat-tolerant, but it does not like cold temperatures.
🌫 It also prefers low to average humidity, which is typical for succulents.
Fertilization
🍽 Feed your Euphorbia lactea with a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring through summer). Avoid over-fertilizing, as too much fertilizer can burn the roots. In the fall and winter, you can skip fertilizing since the plant enters dormancy.
Repotting
🪴 Repot every 1-2 years to refresh the soil and give the roots more space to grow. Use a pot that's 1-2 inches larger than the current one. Spring is the best time for repotting.
💡 Tip: Always wear gloves when handling Euphorbia lactea. It excretes a milky, toxic sap when cut or damaged, which can cause skin irritation.
Common Issues & Troubleshooting
❌ Yellowing or Drooping Leaves?
➡ Likely a sign of overwatering or low light. Make sure the soil is drying out between waterings, and move it to a brighter location if needed.
❌ Brown Tips on Leaves?
➡ This can be caused by too much direct sunlight or low humidity. Try moving the plant to a spot with bright, indirect light and increase humidity slightly.
❌ Stunted Growth or Lack of Color?
➡ If your Royal Red variety isn’t showing its bold colors, it may not be getting enough light. Ensure it's placed in a bright spot and check for any signs of pests.
Fun Fact
While the Euphorbia lactea may look like a cactus, it’s actually not one! It belongs to the Euphorbiaceae family, not the cactus family, and can be toxic if ingested due to its milky sap, so be cautious around pets and children.
With its bold colors and unique shape, the Euphorbia lactea is a gorgeous and easy-to-care-for addition to any plant lover’s collection. Whether you’re looking for a dramatic centerpiece or just a touch of color, this plant is a must-have! 🌱✨
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