Botanical Name: Euphorbia trigona ‘Rubra’
Common Names: Red African Milk Tree, Red Cathedral Cactus, Rubra Milk Tree
📌 Product Description
Euphorbia trigona ‘Rubra’ is a dramatic red-flushed form of the African Milk Tree, prized for its striking burgundy to deep red stems. The triangular, ridged stems feature short paired spines and small leaves along the edges, creating a bold architectural silhouette.
Colour intensity deepens in bright sunlight and cooler conditions, making this an eye-catching feature in modern gardens and decorative containers. Although commonly mistaken for a cactus, it is a true Euphorbia and shares the same hardy, drought-tolerant characteristics as the green form.
⚠️ The white milky sap is toxic and may irritate skin and eyes. Handle with care and keep away from pets and children.
📏 Size When Fully Grown
Height: 1.5 – 3 m (smaller when container grown)
Spread: 60 cm – 1 m
Growth Habit: Upright, columnar succulent
Growth Rate: Moderate to fast in warm conditions
🌱 Best Growing Conditions
Light: Full sun to bright light (strong light enhances red colouring)
Soil: Well-draining cactus or succulent mix
Water:
Feeding: Light feeding during spring and summer
Maintenance:
🌦️ Planting & Growing Season (South Africa)
Best Planting Time: Spring to early summer
Active Growing Season: Spring and summer
Colour Enhancement: Richer red tones in cooler months and strong sun
Climate Suitability: Ideal for warm inland and coastal regions
Indoor Suitability: Suitable for bright, sunny indoor areas
Frost Tolerance: Protect from frost; sensitive below 5°C
🌼 Additional Benefits
✔ Dramatic red architectural form
✔ Drought-tolerant
✔ Low-maintenance
✔ Excellent statement plant
✔ Ideal for water-wise gardens
✔ Long lifespan
🌿 Ideal Uses
✔ Feature plant in decorative pots
✔ Contemporary landscape designs
✔ Indoor statement plant
✔ Patio and courtyard displays
✔ Succulent collections
✔ Water-wise landscaping