Introducing the African milk barrel, known as the Euphorbia horrida, which is a striking succulent plant that belongs to the Euphorbiaceae family. It is commonly referred to by various names, including the African milk plant, the African milk cactus, the African milk tree cactus, and the toothpick cactus. These names reflect its unique appearance and the milky sap it produces.
Native to South Africa, this columnar plant, Euphorbia horrida, offsets the base to form clumps. The plant has cylindrical stems with gray-green to blue-gray hues, flattened ribs, and spine-like features.
The Euphorbia horrida can grow up to 5 feet tall and 6 inches wide. The structures that resemble spines are the dried remains of the stalks of cyathia (inflorescence of the plant).
Its stem may be striped with white and green markings. This species is similar to the unrelated barrel cacti in its growth habits.
Over time, the ribs frequently grow wavy. This Euphorbia succulent has sharp ridges lined with thorns.
The Euphorbia horrida flowers bloom during the spring and summer months. They are typically greenish-yellow in color and are arranged in clusters at the top of the stem.
While the flowers themselves may not be the main attraction, they add a touch of beauty to the overall appearance of the plant. You can propagate the African milk barrel by taking stem cuttings. Simply cut a healthy stem from the plant and allow it to dry for a few days.
After that, plant the cutting in soil that drains properly and keep it damp but not soggy until roots form. Another method is by collecting and planting the seeds produced by mature plants. However, keep in mind that germination can be slow and may require patience.
When and How to Water Your African Milk Barrel
When it comes to watering, the African milk barrels have low water needs, so it's best to water them sparingly. During the active growing season (spring and summer), water deeply every 2–3 weeks; in fall and winter dormancy, reduce watering to once a month or less. The top inch of the soil should be completely dry before you water again.
In the spring and summer, water deeply every two to three weeks during the growing season. In the fall and winter, during the dormant season, reduce watering to once a month or even less, as the plant goes into a rest period.
Grow your succulents in containers with great drainage holes and suitable soil, and water them deeply between periods of drying out.
Light Requirements - Where to Place Your Euphorbia horrida
When growing indoors, the African milk barrel needs bright, direct sunlight to thrive for at least 6-8 hours per day.
Place them near a south-facing window or any spot that receives ample bright sunlight throughout the day. You can use artificial grow lights as a supplement if you don't have access to enough natural light.
If you're growing African milk barrels outdoors, they need full sun exposure to flourish for at least 6-8 hours a day. Find a spot in your garden or patio that receives direct sunlight for most of the day.
These Euphorbia plants love the intense sunlight and warmth, which helps them maintain their unique shape and color. Just be cautious of extreme heat, especially in hotter climates. If the temperature rises too high, provide some afternoon shade to protect the plant from scorching.
Optimal Soil & Fertilizer Needs
The Euphorbia horrida favors very airy, sandy soil that drains well. Planting them in ordinary soil will result in compacted roots, stunted growth, and most likely root rot. Instead, make or buy a well-draining potting mix, or ideally use our specialized succulent potting mix that contains 5 natural substrates and mycorrhizae to promote the development of a strong root system that helps your succulent to thrive.
The African milk barrels are not heavy feeders, but they can benefit from a balanced (5-10-5), water-soluble NPK fertilizer once a year in the spring. It's important to note that during the dormant season (fall and winter), African milk barrels do not require fertilizer.
Remember to always follow the instructions on the fertilizer package and avoid over-fertilizing, as it can harm the plant.
Indoor Growing African Milk Barrel Requirements
When growing indoors, your African milk barrels prefer warm temperatures ranging between 65°F and 85°F during the day. They can tolerate slightly cooler temperatures at night, but it's best to avoid temperatures below 50°F, as it can cause damage to the plant. As for humidity, these plants are accustomed to low humidity levels, so typical indoor humidity is usually sufficient.
Hardiness Zone & More
For outdoor cultivation, the African milk barrels are most commonly grown in USDA zones 9 to 11.
These zones generally have mild winters and warm to hot summers, which closely resemble the plant's natural habitat.
However, if you live in a cooler climate, you can still enjoy growing African milk barrels outdoors during the summer months and bring them indoors during winter to protect them from frost.
Wildlife – Euphorbia horrida Flowers Attract the Following Friendly Pollinators
Euphorbia horrida flowers are known to attract a variety of pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. These friendly pollinators help to ensure the continued growth and reproduction of the plant species in their natural habitat.
Butterflies
Bees
Hummingbirds
Lady Bugs
Multi Pollinators
Other Birds
According to the ASPCA, Euphorbia horrida has a milky latex sap that is mildly toxic to humans and pets. If consumed in large amounts, the milky sap can irritate the skin or trigger allergic reactions. If it gets into the eyes, it can cause extreme irritation.
How to Propagate Your Euphorbia horrida
Euphorbia horrida can be propagated through stem cuttings. To do this, cut a healthy stem from the plant and allow it to callous for a few days before planting it in well-draining soil. Keep the cutting in a warm, bright location and water sparingly until roots develop.
Key Takeaways
- The African Milk Barrel boasts a striking, cactus-like appearance with deep ribs and bold spines, making it a standout choice for collectors seeking sculptural and dramatic form in drought-tolerant gardens or containers.
- Euphorbia horrida naturally produces clusters of offsets (pups) around its base, allowing it to grow into an impressive colony over time and making propagation simple and rewarding.
- This succulent stores water efficiently within its thick, ridged stems, giving it excellent drought tolerance and minimal watering needs—ideal for low-maintenance landscapes.
- The spines on the African Milk Barrel not only enhance its armored look but also serve a practical purpose, protecting it from herbivores and shading the plant’s surface to reduce moisture loss.
The Bottom Line
Overall, the African milk barrel (Euphorbia horrida) is a fascinating succulent that boasts thick, cylindrical stems covered in sharp thorns. It's a low-maintenance plant that thrives in arid conditions, making it perfect for those who may forget to water their plants regularly.
Just ensure it receives plenty of sunlight and well-draining soil, and you'll have a unique and eye-catching addition to your succulent collection. Be sure to add Euphorbia horrida to your home or garden and enjoy its low-maintenance care, while admiring its impressive display year after year.
Bloom Season
Flower Color
Growth Rate
Hardiness Zone
Mature Size
Plant Type
Resistance
Sun Exposure
Watering Needs
| Bloom Season | Spring, Summer |
|---|---|
| Botanical Name | Euphorbia horrida |
| Common Name | African milk barrel cactus |
| Dormancy | Winter |
| Family | Euphorbiaceae |
| Flower Color | Yellow green |
| Genus | Euphorbia |
| Growth Habit | Compact |
| Growth Rate | Slow |
| Hardiness Zone | 9, 10, 11 |
| Mature Size | 5 ft. tall, 6 in. wide |
| Native Area | South Africa |
| Plant Type | Succulent |
| Propagation | By stem cuttings |
| Resistance | Extremely drought-tolerant, pest resistance, heat tolerant |
| Soil PH | 6.5, Acidic, Neutral |
| Soil Type | specialized succulent potting mix |
| Special Features | Easy to maintain |
| Sun Exposure | Full sun (6+ hrs.), Partial shade (3–6 hrs. sun) |
| Toxicity | Mild toxic to humans, mildly toxic to pets(Keep away from children) |
| Watering Needs | Low |
Growers Quick Reference Guide - Key Features
| Bloom Season | Spring, Summer |
|---|---|
| Botanical Name | Euphorbia horrida |
| Common Name | African milk barrel cactus |
| Dormancy | Winter |
| Family | Euphorbiaceae |
| Flower Color | Yellow green |
| Genus | Euphorbia |
| Growth Habit | Compact |
| Growth Rate | Slow |
| Hardiness Zone | 9, 10, 11 |
| Mature Size | 5 ft. tall, 6 in. wide |
| Native Area | South Africa |
| Plant Type | Succulent |
| Propagation | By stem cuttings |
| Resistance | Extremely drought-tolerant, pest resistance, heat tolerant |
| Soil PH | 6.5, Acidic, Neutral |
| Soil Type | specialized succulent potting mix |
| Special Features | Easy to maintain |
| Sun Exposure | Full sun (6+ hrs.), Partial shade (3–6 hrs. sun) |
| Toxicity | Mild toxic to humans, mildly toxic to pets(Keep away from children) |
| Watering Needs | Low |
- Description
- Key Plant Features
Introducing the African milk barrel, known as the Euphorbia horrida, which is a striking succulent plant that belongs to the Euphorbiaceae family. It is commonly referred to by various names, including the African milk plant, the African milk cactus, the African milk tree cactus, and the toothpick cactus. These names reflect its unique appearance and the milky sap it produces.
Native to South Africa, this columnar plant, Euphorbia horrida, offsets the base to form clumps. The plant has cylindrical stems with gray-green to blue-gray hues, flattened ribs, and spine-like features.
The Euphorbia horrida can grow up to 5 feet tall and 6 inches wide. The structures that resemble spines are the dried remains of the stalks of cyathia (inflorescence of the plant).
Its stem may be striped with white and green markings. This species is similar to the unrelated barrel cacti in its growth habits.
Over time, the ribs frequently grow wavy. This Euphorbia succulent has sharp ridges lined with thorns.
The Euphorbia horrida flowers bloom during the spring and summer months. They are typically greenish-yellow in color and are arranged in clusters at the top of the stem.
While the flowers themselves may not be the main attraction, they add a touch of beauty to the overall appearance of the plant. You can propagate the African milk barrel by taking stem cuttings. Simply cut a healthy stem from the plant and allow it to dry for a few days.
After that, plant the cutting in soil that drains properly and keep it damp but not soggy until roots form. Another method is by collecting and planting the seeds produced by mature plants. However, keep in mind that germination can be slow and may require patience.
When and How to Water Your African Milk Barrel
When it comes to watering, the African milk barrels have low water needs, so it's best to water them sparingly. During the active growing season (spring and summer), water deeply every 2–3 weeks; in fall and winter dormancy, reduce watering to once a month or less. The top inch of the soil should be completely dry before you water again.
In the spring and summer, water deeply every two to three weeks during the growing season. In the fall and winter, during the dormant season, reduce watering to once a month or even less, as the plant goes into a rest period.
Grow your succulents in containers with great drainage holes and suitable soil, and water them deeply between periods of drying out.
Light Requirements - Where to Place Your Euphorbia horrida
When growing indoors, the African milk barrel needs bright, direct sunlight to thrive for at least 6-8 hours per day.
Place them near a south-facing window or any spot that receives ample bright sunlight throughout the day. You can use artificial grow lights as a supplement if you don't have access to enough natural light.
If you're growing African milk barrels outdoors, they need full sun exposure to flourish for at least 6-8 hours a day. Find a spot in your garden or patio that receives direct sunlight for most of the day.
These Euphorbia plants love the intense sunlight and warmth, which helps them maintain their unique shape and color. Just be cautious of extreme heat, especially in hotter climates. If the temperature rises too high, provide some afternoon shade to protect the plant from scorching.
Optimal Soil & Fertilizer Needs
The Euphorbia horrida favors very airy, sandy soil that drains well. Planting them in ordinary soil will result in compacted roots, stunted growth, and most likely root rot. Instead, make or buy a well-draining potting mix, or ideally use our specialized succulent potting mix that contains 5 natural substrates and mycorrhizae to promote the development of a strong root system that helps your succulent to thrive.
The African milk barrels are not heavy feeders, but they can benefit from a balanced (5-10-5), water-soluble NPK fertilizer once a year in the spring. It's important to note that during the dormant season (fall and winter), African milk barrels do not require fertilizer.
Remember to always follow the instructions on the fertilizer package and avoid over-fertilizing, as it can harm the plant.
Indoor Growing African Milk Barrel Requirements
When growing indoors, your African milk barrels prefer warm temperatures ranging between 65°F and 85°F during the day. They can tolerate slightly cooler temperatures at night, but it's best to avoid temperatures below 50°F, as it can cause damage to the plant. As for humidity, these plants are accustomed to low humidity levels, so typical indoor humidity is usually sufficient.
Hardiness Zone & More
For outdoor cultivation, the African milk barrels are most commonly grown in USDA zones 9 to 11.
These zones generally have mild winters and warm to hot summers, which closely resemble the plant's natural habitat.
However, if you live in a cooler climate, you can still enjoy growing African milk barrels outdoors during the summer months and bring them indoors during winter to protect them from frost.
Wildlife – Euphorbia horrida Flowers Attract the Following Friendly Pollinators
Euphorbia horrida flowers are known to attract a variety of pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. These friendly pollinators help to ensure the continued growth and reproduction of the plant species in their natural habitat.
Butterflies
Bees
Hummingbirds
Lady Bugs
Multi Pollinators
Other Birds
According to the ASPCA, Euphorbia horrida has a milky latex sap that is mildly toxic to humans and pets. If consumed in large amounts, the milky sap can irritate the skin or trigger allergic reactions. If it gets into the eyes, it can cause extreme irritation.
How to Propagate Your Euphorbia horrida
Euphorbia horrida can be propagated through stem cuttings. To do this, cut a healthy stem from the plant and allow it to callous for a few days before planting it in well-draining soil. Keep the cutting in a warm, bright location and water sparingly until roots develop.
Key Takeaways
- The African Milk Barrel boasts a striking, cactus-like appearance with deep ribs and bold spines, making it a standout choice for collectors seeking sculptural and dramatic form in drought-tolerant gardens or containers.
- Euphorbia horrida naturally produces clusters of offsets (pups) around its base, allowing it to grow into an impressive colony over time and making propagation simple and rewarding.
- This succulent stores water efficiently within its thick, ridged stems, giving it excellent drought tolerance and minimal watering needs—ideal for low-maintenance landscapes.
- The spines on the African Milk Barrel not only enhance its armored look but also serve a practical purpose, protecting it from herbivores and shading the plant’s surface to reduce moisture loss.
The Bottom Line
Overall, the African milk barrel (Euphorbia horrida) is a fascinating succulent that boasts thick, cylindrical stems covered in sharp thorns. It's a low-maintenance plant that thrives in arid conditions, making it perfect for those who may forget to water their plants regularly.
Just ensure it receives plenty of sunlight and well-draining soil, and you'll have a unique and eye-catching addition to your succulent collection. Be sure to add Euphorbia horrida to your home or garden and enjoy its low-maintenance care, while admiring its impressive display year after year.
Bloom Season
Flower Color
Growth Rate
Hardiness Zone
Mature Size
Plant Type
Resistance
Sun Exposure
Watering Needs
| Bloom Season | Spring, Summer |
|---|---|
| Botanical Name | Euphorbia horrida |
| Common Name | African milk barrel cactus |
| Dormancy | Winter |
| Family | Euphorbiaceae |
| Flower Color | Yellow green |
| Genus | Euphorbia |
| Growth Habit | Compact |
| Growth Rate | Slow |
| Hardiness Zone | 9, 10, 11 |
| Mature Size | 5 ft. tall, 6 in. wide |
| Native Area | South Africa |
| Plant Type | Succulent |
| Propagation | By stem cuttings |
| Resistance | Extremely drought-tolerant, pest resistance, heat tolerant |
| Soil PH | 6.5, Acidic, Neutral |
| Soil Type | specialized succulent potting mix |
| Special Features | Easy to maintain |
| Sun Exposure | Full sun (6+ hrs.), Partial shade (3–6 hrs. sun) |
| Toxicity | Mild toxic to humans, mildly toxic to pets(Keep away from children) |
| Watering Needs | Low |
Growers Quick Reference Guide - Key Features
| Bloom Season | Spring, Summer |
|---|---|
| Botanical Name | Euphorbia horrida |
| Common Name | African milk barrel cactus |
| Dormancy | Winter |
| Family | Euphorbiaceae |
| Flower Color | Yellow green |
| Genus | Euphorbia |
| Growth Habit | Compact |
| Growth Rate | Slow |
| Hardiness Zone | 9, 10, 11 |
| Mature Size | 5 ft. tall, 6 in. wide |
| Native Area | South Africa |
| Plant Type | Succulent |
| Propagation | By stem cuttings |
| Resistance | Extremely drought-tolerant, pest resistance, heat tolerant |
| Soil PH | 6.5, Acidic, Neutral |
| Soil Type | specialized succulent potting mix |
| Special Features | Easy to maintain |
| Sun Exposure | Full sun (6+ hrs.), Partial shade (3–6 hrs. sun) |
| Toxicity | Mild toxic to humans, mildly toxic to pets(Keep away from children) |
| Watering Needs | Low |
