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HouseplantsCactus SucculentConservatory Greenhouse

Euphorbia ingens

candelabra tree

A fast-growing, succulent tree capable of reaching 15m, but is usually grown as a pot plant. Thebranching, leafless stems have four or five vertical ridges bearing small spines. Mature plants can produce greenish-yellow flowers at the branch tips, followed by dark red to purple fruit

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Size
Ultimate height
Higher than 12 metres
Time to ultimate height
10–20 years
Ultimate spread
Wider than 8 metres
Growing conditions
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green
Summer Green
Autumn Green Yellow
Winter Green Yellow Red Purple
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

South–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Drought resistance
Yes
Hardiness
H2
Botanical details
Family
Euphorbiaceae
Native to the UK
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Columnar upright
Potentially harmful
Humans/Pets: IRRITANT to skin/eye, harmful if eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. For further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants
Genus

Euphorbia can be annuals, perennials, shrubs or succulents, with milky sap and small flowers held within cupped, often colourful bracts

Name status

Correct

Plant range
S & E Africa

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow indoors in equal quantities of peat-free, loam-based potting compost and grit in full light. Water moderately when in growth and keep dry in winter. In the growing season feed a low nitrogen liquid fertiliser 2 or 3 times. See houseplant cacti and succulent cultivation and Euphorbia cultivation for further advice

Propagation

Propagate by seed sown at 15-18°C in early spring or stem cuttings in spring or early summer

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Patio and container plants
  • Low Maintenance
Pruning

No pruning required but can be cut back to restrict size

Pests

May be susceptible to mealybugs, glasshouse whitefly and glasshouse red spider mite

Diseases

May be susceptible to powdery mildews and root rots

Get involved

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