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River Euphorbia
Euphorbia triangularis
SA tree no: 356
English: River Euphorbia, Chandelier Tree, Candelabra Euphorbia, Candelabra Tree, Tree Euphorbia, Triangular Euphorbia
Afrikaans: Riviernaboom, Driehoek-melkbos, Naboom, Noorsdoring
Xhosa: umHlonthlo
Zulu: umHlonhlowane, isiPhapha, umKhondweni
N. Sotho: Lebohlwana
Historical scientific names: Euphorbia grandidens var. triangularis, Euphorbia evansii
Misapplied scientific names: Euphorbia ingens.
Euphorbia triangularis, widely known as the Triangular Euphorbia or Candelabra Tree, is a strikingly architectural, spiny succulent tree native to Southern Africa. It is easily identified by its robust, erect, and distinctively angled stems that branch repeatedly in a candelabra-like formation, forming an impressive, often yellowish-green crown. This tree-like succulent forms characteristic dense stands in its natural habitat and is highly valued for its unique appearance in landscapes.
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Distinguishing features:
Large, tree-like succulent with a distinctive candelabra growth habit due to its upright, ascending branches.
Stems are typically 3-angled (though 4- or 5-angled forms exist, with 3-angled more common in Eastern Cape and 5-angled in KwaZulu-Natal), featuring prominent wavy ridges.
Paired, sharp, blackish-brown spines (up to 8 mm long) arranged along the ridges of the stems, sometimes on separate shields or continuous horny cushions.
Produces small, inconspicuous, greenish-yellow flowers (cyathia) in clusters along the stem ridges.
The plant exudes a milky white, highly toxic latex (sap) when cut or damaged.
Its small, ephemeral (short-lived) leaves appear briefly on new growth.
Overall appearance:
Euphorbia triangularis is a robust succulent tree, often forming a single, slightly angled main trunk that rapidly divides into numerous erect, ascending, and re-branching stems. This creates a distinctive candelabra or chandelier-like crown, which is typically yellowish-green. While generally evergreen due to its succulent stems, it can be considered semi-deciduous as its tiny leaves are shed quickly.
Height:
This impressive succulent tree can grow from 2.5 metres to 10 metres, reaching exceptional heights of up to 18 metres.
Width:
It forms a spreading crown that can typically reach a width of 5 to 10 metres.
Leaves:
The leaves are very small (often triangular or lance-shaped), green, and short-lived (ephemeral). They appear briefly on new stem growth or at the growing tips before quickly falling off, making the green stems the primary photosynthetic organs.
Flowers:
The actual flowers are very small, inconspicuous, and greenish-yellow. These are technically called "cyathia," which are modified inflorescences typical of the Euphorbia genus. They are borne in clusters along the ridges of the stems.
Flowering season:
According to SANBI, Euphorbia triangularis flowers in winter, specifically from June to August. In Kenton-on-Sea, Eastern Cape (current month June), it would be in its flowering season.
Fruits:
The fruits are small, globe-like (globose) capsules, typically 6-8 mm in diameter, and are distinctly stalked. They are green initially, ripening to a reddish colour. As with many Euphorbia species, they are three-lobed (tricoccous) and split open explosively when mature to release their seeds.
Seeds:
The fruits contain small, rounded, dark brown, smooth seeds, typically 2.5 x 2 mm in size.
Bark:
On very old, mature main trunks, the bark is grey and can become rough and corky. However, the majority of the plant's surface is composed of the green, succulent stems.
Stems:
The stems are the plant's most characteristic feature. They are succulent, thick, and typically 3-angled (triangular in cross-section), though 4- or 5-angled forms also occur. They are yellowish-green, segmented, and have somewhat wavy margins along their ridges. The branchlets are typically 40-90 mm in diameter and 50-500 mm long.
Wood:
Euphorbia triangularis is a succulent plant, meaning its stems are fleshy and store water. It does not produce hard timber wood in the conventional sense, but its stems are firm and robust.
Thorns:
Prominent, sharp, rigid, paired spines up to 8 mm long are arranged along the ridges of the stems. These spines are often borne on separate shields or on continuous horny cushions. Caution is necessary when handling due to these spines.
Roots:
It has a well-developed fibrous root system that is adapted to anchoring the large, top-heavy plant in often shallow or rocky soils and efficiently absorbing surface moisture. While generally non-invasive, its shallower root system means it can become top-heavy if it grows too tall without sufficient support or pruning.
Soil type:
Requires very well-drained soil. It thrives in sandy, rocky, or gritty soils and is highly intolerant of waterlogged conditions, which can quickly lead to root rot. A specialized cactus or succulent potting mix is ideal for cultivation.
Aspect:
Thrives in full sun, requiring ample direct sunlight for optimal growth. It is highly drought-tolerant, adapted to arid conditions. It is frost tender and cannot withstand severe frost, preferring warm, frost-free climates. Temperatures below 10°C (50°F) can cause harm. It is also tolerant of wind.
Edibility:
Euphorbia triangularis is not edible.
Toxicity:
Highly toxic. All parts of Euphorbia triangularis contain a caustic, milky white latex (sap) that is severely irritating. Direct contact with skin can cause rashes, blisters, and inflammation. If it gets into the eyes, it can cause severe pain, temporary or permanent blindness. Ingestion can lead to severe gastrointestinal irritation, vomiting, diarrhoea, and internal inflammation. Extreme caution must be exercised when handling this plant; wear gloves and eye protection.
Uses:
Ornamental: Cultivated globally as a dramatic architectural specimen plant in arid gardens, succulent collections, and rockeries.
Barrier/Hedge: Due to its formidable spines and dense growth, it can be planted to create an effective living barrier or security hedge.
Traditional/Cultural: In Pondoland (Eastern Cape), it is known as the "tree of twins" (Umhlonhlo Wezana), where a special relationship is believed to exist between twins and their trees. The health and development of the tree are believed to mirror those of the children and indicate their state of health.
Soil Stabilisation: Can be used in rocky or sandy areas to help stabilise soil and prevent erosion.
Ecology:
Euphorbia triangularis plays an important ecological role in its natural habitat. Its dense, spiny branches provide valuable nesting sites and shelter for various bird species, protecting them from predators. Its inconspicuous flowers attract small pollinating insects. While it provides shelter, Browse animals generally avoid consuming the plant due to its toxic latex.
Distribution and habitat:
According to SANBI, Euphorbia triangularis is native to the Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, and Mpumalanga provinces of South Africa, and also extends into Mozambique. It typically grows in dense stands on rocky hillsides, dry riverbeds, bushveld, and thicket, often forming a dominant and characteristic component of the landscape.
Derivation of name:
Euphorbia: The genus name honours Euphorbus, the Greek physician to King Juba II of Mauretania, who was said to have used Euphorbia plants for medicinal purposes.
triangularis: The specific epithet is Latin and means "three-angled" or "triangular," which directly refers to the distinctive, typically three-sided stems of the plant.
Historical aspects:
Euphorbia triangularis has long been a striking and integral part of the South African landscape, particularly in the Eastern Cape, where its large stands form distinctive features. Its unique form has made it recognisable, and it holds cultural significance in certain regions, such as Pondoland, where the "tree of twins" belief highlights a deep connection between the plant and local communities. Despite its highly toxic latex, some traditional practices have involved cautious use of its properties. Its architectural beauty has also led to its widespread cultivation as an ornamental plant globally.
Interesting facts:
This tree is famously known as the "Candelabra Tree" because its large, upright branches mimic the shape of a multi-branched candelabra.
In the Pondoland region of the Eastern Cape, it carries the profound cultural name "tree of twins," with a local belief that the health and growth of the tree are intimately linked to that of a pair of twins.
Despite its cactus-like appearance, Euphorbia triangularis is a succulent from the Euphorbiaceae family, showcasing a fascinating example of convergent evolution.
Every part of this plant contains a milky white sap (latex) that is highly toxic and can cause severe irritation and even temporary blindness if it comes into contact with eyes.
It's one of the tallest succulent trees in the world, capable of reaching heights of up to 18 metres, forming impressive vertical accents in its habitat.
Growing tips:
Light: Requires full sun for optimal growth. Place it in a location that receives ample direct sunlight throughout the day.
Soil: Absolutely essential to use very well-drained soil. A sandy, gritty, or rocky soil mix is ideal. Waterlogged conditions will lead to root rot.
Watering: Extremely drought-tolerant. Water very sparingly, especially during winter (its dormant period). Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Overwatering is the most common cause of failure.
Frost Protection: It is frost tender. Plant in a frost-free area or provide adequate protection (e.g., covering) in colder climates. Young plants are particularly vulnerable.
Propagation: Easily propagated from stem cuttings. After taking a cutting, allow it to dry and form a callus for several days (up to a week or more for larger cuttings) before planting in well-drained soil. Always wear protective gloves and eyewear when taking cuttings due to the toxic latex.
Maintenance: Very low-maintenance once established. It generally requires minimal feeding.
Safety: Always handle with extreme caution due to the toxic latex and sharp spines. Wear protective gloves and eyewear.
This plant is a fantastic alternative for:
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