African milk tree care guide

Pets and children

How often to water African milk tree

Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)

Every 7 days

A summer grower: water well two or three days after the soil dries, as a guide, and in the morning or evening in summer.

Autumn (Oct–Nov)

Every 14 days

As temperatures fall, wait about a week after the soil dries before watering.

Winter (Dec–Feb)

Every month

Nearly dry: a light watering about once a month on a warm morning, a little sooner in a heated room, as a guide.

Light and placement for African milk tree

It likes bright light: a sunny window indoors, or direct sun outdoors in spring and fall, as a guide; harsh midsummer afternoon sun can scorch it, so soften it with a sheer curtain, and low light bends the stems.

Overwintering African milk tree

Overwintering guide: 5°C (41°F) or above

Tender, so about 5°C is the floor: bring it to a bright spot indoors when nights fall below 10°C and keep it on the dry side; dropping leaves in winter is usually normal, and new ones come in spring.

Fertilizing and repotting African milk tree

Fertilizer

Feed lightly: diluted liquid fertilizer about monthly from May to September, or one dose of slow-release in spring, and none in fall or winter.

When to repot

Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)

Common problems with African milk tree

• Too much winter water rots it brown from the base.
• It grows tall and top-heavy, then falls over or snaps without support.
• Uneven light bends the stems toward the window.

Tips for growing African milk tree

• If it gets too tall, cut the top in spring, dry the cut and root it as a cutting.
• Turn the pot now and then so light reaches every side.
• Wear gloves when handling it and keep the sap away from your eyes.

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