African Milk Bush (Euphorbia bicompacta var. rubra): Purple-Stemmed Succulent Shrub

Overview

African Milk Bush (Euphorbia bicompacta var. rubra, syn. Synadenium compactum var. rubrum) is a striking, upright succulent shrub from East Africa. Its thick, fleshy stems are a deep, glossy purple-red, especially in sun. Large, ovate, green leaves with purple undersides and margins cluster at the tips. Inconspicuous yellow-green cyathia (flowers) appear in clusters. The milky latex sap is toxic and irritating. Fast-growing and architectural, it's used as a hedge, specimen, or container plant in warm climates. Prune to maintain shape.

Key Features

• Stems: Thick, succulent, deep purple-red; photosynthetic.
• Leaves: Large, green with purple undersides/margins; deciduous in drought.
• Flowers: Small, yellow-green cyathia; not showy.
• Sap: Milky, toxic, irritant; wear gloves when pruning.

Care Guidelines

Light

Full sun to part shade. Best stem color in full sun.

Water

Moderate when in leaf; keep dry when leafless. Drought-tolerant.

Soil

Well-drained. Tolerates poor soil.

Pruning

Prune hard in spring to encourage bushiness. Sap stains; protect eyes/skin.

Taxonomy

Family:	Euphorbiaceae
Genus:	Euphorbia (yoo-FOR-bee-uh)
Species:	bicompacta var. rubra
Synonym:	Synadenium compactum var. rubrum