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.

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. 

Watering Needs 

When it comes to watering, the African milk barrels have low water needs, so it's best to water them sparingly. Before watering, always check the moisture level of the soil. The top inch of the soil should be completely dry before you water again. These plants are prone to root rot, so it's crucial to avoid overwatering. Ensure that the soil has good drainage to prevent excess moisture from sitting around the roots. 

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. 

When it's time to water, do so thoroughly, allowing water to soak the soil completely. However, make sure to let the soil dry out completely between waterings to mimic the plant's natural habitat. Grow your succulents in containers with great drainage holes and suitable soil, and water them deeply between periods of drying out. 

Light Requirements 

When growing African milk barrels indoors, they need bright, direct sunlight to thrive. 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. Just make sure to provide them with at least 6-8 hours of bright light daily. Keep an eye on the plant to ensure it's not getting too much direct sunlight, as it can cause sunburn. 

If you're growing African milk barrels outdoors, they need full sun exposure to flourish. 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. 

Remember, whether indoors or outdoors, African milk barrels thrive in bright light conditions. So, give them the sunshine they crave, and they'll reward you with their fascinating and striking appearance. 

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 occasional fertilization during the growing season. Use a balanced (5-10-5), water-soluble NPK fertilizer specifically formulated for succulents. Dilute the fertilizer to half the recommended strength and apply it once a year in the spring. Remember to always follow the instructions on the fertilizer package and avoid over-fertilizing, as it can harm the plant. 

It's important to note that during the dormant season (fall and winter), African milk barrels do not require fertilizer. They naturally go through a period of rest during this time, so it's best to hold off on feeding them until the growing season resumes in spring. 

Hardiness Zone & More 

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. 

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 brought indoors during winter to protect them from frost. 

Final Thoughts 

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.