Euphobia ingens

Candelabra tree

Euphorbia ingens, also known as the Candelabra Tree, is a striking succulent native to southern Africa. With its tree-like growth habit and thick, succulent trunk branching into multiple candelabra-like arms, it presents a distinctive silhouette. Adorned with ribbed stems and sharp spines for defence, it produces small greenish-yellow flowers during the growing season.

Thriving in full sun, this drought-tolerant indoor plant is popular in homes and conservatories for its unique appearance and low maintenance.

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Origin: Southern Africa
Genus: Euphobia
Species / Cultivar: ingens
Common Name: Candelabra tree

Plant Biography

Euphorbia ingens was first scientifically documented by botanist Carl Linnaeus in the 18th century. The genus name “Euphorbia” honors Euphorbus, the Greek physician of King Juba II of Numidia. This succulent’s specific epithet “ingens” means “huge” in Latin, referring to its imposing size.

Euphorbia ingens has been cultivated for centuries for its ornamental value and resilience in arid climates.

Euphobia ingens
Light: Direct
This plant likes as much sun as possible. Best placed in direct sunlight in a bright window.
Soil: Cacti and Succulent Mix
Enjoys a drier soil with a high ratio of drainage material.
Growth Rate: Medium
Expect to see moderate growth during growing season.
Water Requirement: Light Watering
Water when several cm of soil depth is dry to the touch. Water must draining easily away.
Maintenance: Low
Requires no attention beyond correct position and watering. An ideal starter plant!
Eventual Height: 12m
The plant's ultimate height in typical growing conditions.
Eventual Spread: 8m
The plant's ultimate spread in typical growing conditions.
Care & Size Guidance

Care & Size Guidance

As an indoor plant, Euphorbia ingens requires bright sunlight, so a south- or west-facing window is ideal, or a sunny conservatory if you have one. Ensure well-draining soil such as a cactus and succulent mix, and water only when the soil has dried out.

In terms of size, Euphorbia ingens has the potential to grow to several metres indoors if given a big enough pot and enough headroom. It can be kept smaller by occasional pruning, but be cautious when handling it, as its milky sap can be toxic and irritating to the skin. Any cut branches can rooted as cuttings, but allow the cut end to callous over for a week before potting up in a well-draining mix.

Expert Tip

As with all species of Euphorbia, caution is advised due to its toxic milky sap.

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