Euphorbia trigona is part of the Euphorbiaceae family and its native range is from Gabon to Malawi. It is a succulent shrub or tree which grows primarily in the seasonally dry tropical biome. It is a cactus-like plant with a main upright stem that produces several smaller branches. Euphorbia have very shallow root systems, as they mature they can become quite top-heavy. It would be beneficial to add a layer of top dressing such as decorative grit or using a stake to keep the plant upright.
Genus name comes from the Latin euphorbea, named after Euphorbus, Greek physician to the reputed discoverer of the plant (King Juba II of Numidia). The specific epithet is from the Ancient Greek τρῐ́γωνᾰ (trígōna), this is in alluding to the triangular branches.
Euphorbia are toxic and contain a milky sap which can cause severe skin irritation & eye pain, keep out of reach of pets and children.
Light: Allow the plant to see the sun for as many hours of the day as possible; Euphorbia require direct light to grow well.
Water: Allow the potting mix to dry out completely in between waterings; Euphorbia store the water they need for photosynthesis inside their stems. Before watering, aerate the potting mix with a few pokes of a skewer or blunt stick, pour water slowly over the top of the substrate and allow the water to pass through the drainage holes.
Potting mix: A well draining mix composed of coco coir, perlite or vermiculite and horticultural sand or pumice. Euphorbia only need repotting every 2-3 years.
Fertilising: Feed every few waterings during the growing season. You can dilute fertiliser to half the recommended amount but never add more.
Temperature: 18-26˚C. They can tolerate short periods of as low as 12˚C.
Humidity: Average humidity; if the humidity is particularly high, good ventilation is key to prevent mildew and fungal disease.
Euphorbia are toxic, keep out of reach of pets and children.