African milk tree is a succulent that resembles a cactus and is often grown indoors.
Despite having multiple names containing the word cactus,its not a cactus but a succulent.
Heres what you gotta know about growing this succulent tree.
Credit:Marty Baldwin
Most people in the U.S. grow African milk trees indoors.
Choose a south-, west-, or east-facing window that receives at least six hours of bright sunlight daily.
Light
African milk trees do best in partial to full sun.
Place them in an area outdoors that receives partial sunlight.
If growing them indoors, put them where they receive bright, direct sunlight.
Soil and Water
Thesesucculentscan grow in many types of soil as long as it has good drainage.
The ideal soil pH is 6.1-7.8.
African milk trees are drought tolerant.
When grown outdoors, they need more water in the summer.
In the winter, water only when the top inch of soil is dry.
Indoor plants typically need water once a week.
Overwatering leads toroot rot.
Temperature and Humidity
African milk trees need hot temperatures to grow outdoors.
They dont fare well in cold weather or frost for long.
They can manage when the temperature drops as low as 32F for a short time.
These succulents do best when temperatures are between 60F and 90F.
This succulent prefers moderate humidity of 40 to 60 percent.
Pruning
Pruning is important to maintain an African milk tree.
In early spring, remove any dead or broken branches.
Also, remove any branch that rubs on another or heads off in the wrong direction.
To manage the plants height, cut the tallest branches above a leaf node.
Pests and Problems
Healthy African milk trees typically dont have issues with pests or diseases.
Occasionally,mealybugsmay make their home in this succulent.
Overwatering this tree can lead to fungal and root issues.
Some signs of overwatering include yellowing leaves, dropping leaves, and a squishy texture.
If its underwatered, the skin can also dry out and drop leaves.
They require the same care, although Rubra can handle a little more full sun.
When grown indoors, the plant typically grows to about half this height.
As those new side branches grow, repeat the process on them to promote new growth.
