Euphorbia — la cactée candélabre au port sculptural

Euphorbia includes succulents with a spectacular, graphic habit, often mistaken for cacti. Native to Africa, they have upright, angular or cylindrical stems that create unique architectural silhouettes. Easy to live with, drought-tolerant and slow-growing, they are perfect statement plants for anyone looking for a sculptural presence with minimal care.

Euphorbia trigona: the candelabra tree

The Euphorbia trigona (African candelabra tree) is the best known — its upright, triangular, ribbed stems branch out like the arms of a candelabra. The classic green version and the 'Rubra' version (African milk tree) with its reddish tints create two different moods. Available in several sizes, from the compact H40 cm to the large H70 cm, it takes its place among the large XXL plants with its geometric cactus look. The Red and green Euphorbia trigona duo pairs the two colors for a striking contrast.

Euphorbia tirucalli and eritrea: the sculptural ones

The Euphorbia tirucalli (pencil cactus) spreads thin, bright green cylindrical stems that branch in all directions — a light, airy silhouette like coral on land. The Euphorbia eritrea (H100 cm) is the most imposing, with thick, fleshy columns reminiscent of a classic columnar cactus. The Euphorbia acrurensis (Cowboy Cactus) completes the collection with its candelabra shape straight out of a western movie set. These varieties are the most graphic in the catalog — each one is a true living sculpture.

A plant with latex to handle with care

All Euphorbia contain a white latex that oozes out when a stem is cut or broken. This latex irritates the skin, eyes and mucous membranes — wear gloves when handling, repotting or pruning, and wash your hands after contact. Keep these plants out of reach of young children and pets. That's the only precaution you need to know: once in place and left alone, Euphorbia is a completely easygoing plant that asks for almost nothing.

Euphorbia care

Euphorbia is an arid-climate succulent: it is one of the heat-tolerant plants: it loves sun and hates overwatering. Place it in front of the brightest window — it even tolerates direct sun. Water very sparingly: every 2 to 3 weeks in spring-summer when the substrate is completely dry, and hardly at all in winter (once a month at most). Perfect drainage is essential: cactus potting mix and a drainage hole are a must. Overwatering is the only thing that kills this plant — the finger test method is essential to never overwater.

Euphorbia and cacti: the same desert vibe

Although Euphorbia is not a true cactus, it shares the same desert aesthetic and the same needs. It pairs perfectly with true cacti and other succulents to create a bright, arid corner. Its upright habit adds height to an arrangement of cacti and succulents, which are often low and squat. Placed in a terracotta or concrete pot, it reinforces a mineral, contemporary look.

Euphorbia in decor

Euphorbia's graphic silhouette makes it a top choice for modern, minimalist or ethnic-inspired interiors. A single Euphorbia trigona in a living room corner creates a striking sculptural focal point. As an XXL plant, the Eritrea becomes an architectural centerpiece. Its geometric cactus look goes well with elegant pots and decorative pots in matte ceramic or concrete, and with an on-trend desert style. It's one of the easiest full-sun plants for anyone who wants character without the hassle of maintenance.