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Basic Info
Euphorbia Horrida also commonly known as the ‘African Milk Barrel’. As the plant matures you can expect it to be able to reach up to around 1.5 m (4.9ft) tall and around 15 cm (6″) in diameter. One of the most notable features of the plant are the light green coloured cacti stems. The plant has notably many dark brown spines that grow out of the ribs of the cacti.
Scientific Classification
Family: Euphoribaceae
Subfamily: Euphorbioideae
Tribe: Euphorbieae
Genus: Euphorbia
Care and Propagation Information
Watering
Euphorbia Horrida ‘African Milk Barrel’ can be quite beautiful when it is well-taken care of. This succulent type needs typical watering as the other succulents. The watering method is very important to keep your African Milk Barrel healthy. It should not sit on the water, and an excess amount of water should be avoided. The best way of watering is soak and dry method this succulent. Yet, the succulent should be controlled to avoid overwatering.
General Care for Euphorbia Horrida ‘African Milk Barrel’
This succulent type is a unique one that blooms in the spring. When it blooms, you will enjoy flowers. It is a nice addition to your collection of plants especially if you have it displayed in a beautiful pot.
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Quick Facts:
- Prefers full sun
- Can be grown outdoor
- Grows 1.5 m (4.9) tall
- Grows up to 15 cm (6″) wide
- Can die easily if overwatered see: How to Water Succulent Plants
- Does not handle cold well
- Prefers Zone 9a-11b -3.9°C (20°F)
- Best propagated by offsets or seeds
Where to Plant
Euphorbia Horrida ‘African Milk Barrel’ succulents need strong light. When planting this succulent type in a garden, make sure it gets sunlight. Full to partial sun is the best for its growth. It is better to grow outdoor rather than indoor.
This type of succulent prefers a warm climate. It can survive at zone 9b-11b which is around -3.9°C (20°F). If you live in a cold area, it is better to plant African Milk Barrel in an indoor environment. As long as it gets enough sunlight, the plant will grow happily.
When selecting what pot to use be sure that you understand the difference between the material used (See our guide on how to pick the best plant pot).
How to Propagate Euphorbia Horrida ‘African Milk Barrel’
African Milk Barrel can be propagated by offsets or seeds. This succulent type does not require repotting often. Of course, the first-time repotting is essential when it is bought from the store. You can learn all about How To Repot Succulents in our guide.
Like all the other succulent types, a well-drained soil mixture is essential. If you want to know about well-drained soil mixtures, check How to Prepare Well-drained Soil for Succulent Plants.
How to Propagate Euphorbia Horrida ‘African Milk Barrel’ From Offsets
African Milk Barrel propagates from offsets. To be able to propagate from the mother plant, you might wait several years for the main plant to produce an offset. To start this process, use a sharp knife and remove an offset from the main plant. When you remove the offset, clean the extra soil from it. Before replanting, wait for a few days to allow it to callous. Use well-draining soil for your new succulent plant. Don’t forget to water when the soil dries out.
How to Propagate Euphorbia Horrida ‘African Milk Barrel’ Using Seeds
This succulent type is a slow grower so even if it can be propagated by its seeds, this method is not recommended. To propagate from the seeds, plant the seeds in a well-draining soil mixture. This method can be used outdoors. In cooler areas, indoor propagating is recommended.
Origin and Habitat
Euphorbia Horrida ‘African Milk Barrel’ is native to South Africa.
