African Milk Bush (Euphorbia Umbellata) is a perennial succulent in the Euphorbiaceae family with moderate care difficulty. It requires moderate watering and full sun or partial shade light in USDA hardiness zones 9-11. This plant is toxic to cats and dogs — keep it out of reach of pets. It can be grown indoors.

Euphorbia umbellata is a succulent, evergreen shrub or small bushy tree native to parts of Africa, known for its medicinal uses and distinctive milky latex sap.

African Milk Bush

African Milk Bush

Euphorbia Umbellata

Euphorbia umbellata is a succulent, evergreen shrub or small bushy tree native to parts of Africa, known for its medicinal uses and distinctive milky latex sap.

Quick Facts

Type
succulent
Lifecycle
perennial
Care Difficulty
Moderate
Water Needs
Moderate
Light
Full Sun, Partial Shade
Hardiness Zones
9-11

Safety

⚠️
Not Pet Safe
⚠️
Not Child Safe
☠️
Toxic

Growing Conditions

Soil Types:loamy, sandy, well-drained
Indoor:Yes
Outdoor:Yes
Garden Use:specimen plant, ornamental, medicinal

Care Calendar

Monthly care tasks for African Milk Bush

Jan
Prune
Feb
Fertilize
Mar
Repot
Apr
Water+
May
...
Jun
...
Jul
...
Aug
...
Sep
...
Oct
...
Nov
...
Dec
...

Expert Care Tips

Pro tips from botanists and plant experts

Watering Tip

Check soil moisture by inserting your finger 1 inch deep. Water only when the top layer feels dry to prevent overwatering.

Humidity Trick

Group plants together to create...

Growth Hack

Rotate your plant every...

Photo Gallery10+ photos

African Milk Bush
African Milk Bush detail

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Taxonomy

Family:Euphorbiaceae
Genus:Euphorbia