The plant you are interested in is the Euphorbia trigona, a truly mesmerizing and unique succulent, commonly known as the African Milk Tree or Cathedral Cactus. Please note that the description incorrectly refers to it as the Poinsettia, which is a different plant (Euphorbia pulcherrima). Your Euphorbia trigona, standing at an impressive 70cm tall in its 17cm pot, is an eye-catching plant that adds height and exotic charm to any indoor space.

🌿 Foliage, Form, and Appearance

This plant is an evergreen succulent, defined by its striking, upright, three-sided vertical green stems. This distinctive, cactus-like appearance makes it a popular choice for modern interior décor. The stems are adorned with small, ephemeral leaves and feature charming red tips and red edges along the ridges, particularly when exposed to strong light. Its unique shape and height make it a true gem for any indoor garden.

• Leaves/Spines: The true leaves are small and usually drop off. The plant does have small, stiff thorns along the ridges of the stems.

• Origin: Native to Central Africa, this succulent is well-adapted to survive in various environments.

📏 Size and Growth

At 70cm, your Euphorbia trigona is already a significant plant, adding a touch of height and elegance. It has the potential to grow quite tall, reaching up to 1.5 to 2 metres indoors with good care, and is suitable for small to medium-sized spaces due to its narrow, vertical form.

🌸 Flowering and Fragrance

The Euphorbia trigona is grown entirely for its decorative stems and striking vertical shape. It rarely flowers indoors. When it does, it produces small, inconspicuous, yellowish-green blooms (cyathia) that are not notably fragrant.

💧 Care and Environment

This is an easy, low-maintenance succulent, perfect for both novice and seasoned gardeners alike.

• Placement: This plant thrives in full sun. Place it in a sunny spot that receives ample sunlight to promote healthy growth and vibrant colours on the stems and tips. It is generally very tolerant of bright conditions.

• Watering: It requires occasional watering, with the key being moderation. You should water it once every 8–10 days during the active growing season, ensuring that the soil is allowed to dry out completely between waterings. It thrives in well-draining soil with good drainage to prevent waterlogging.

• Fertilization: It is recommended to give the plant a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season (spring/summer) and reduce this to once a month during winter (or stop entirely), being careful not to over-fertilize.

Note: The Euphorbia trigona (African Milk Tree), like all Euphorbia species, contains a milky sap called latex which is toxic and can cause skin irritation. It is important to handle it with care and keep it strictly for decorative purposes only, ensuring it is out of reach of children and pets.