Candelabra Cactus

Candelabra cactus sounds like a cactus and looks like one, but is actually a euphorbia. (Difference explained further down)

When small and very young, Candelabras give a fun and casual desert vibe with their stems that each form their own unique shape.

As they grow, they add a sophisticated look to the scenery with their tall and upright stature.

And when very mature, they turn into magnificent 30 foot trees- a very rare and magical sight for onlookers here in the US.

Botanical name: Euphorbia ingens

Other names: Dragon bones, Candelabra spurge, Candelabra tree, African candelabra, Cowboy cactus, Good luck cactus, Candle cactus, Candelabra euphorbia

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Ingens in Latin means “massive” or “extraordinary,” and indeed, Euphorbia ingens can eventually become a massive 30 foot plus tree spreading equally as wide. However, it can take 20 years for the plant to reach that point under ideal conditions, making it accessible for many people to enjoy in smaller spaces for a long period of time.

This columnar, upright euphorbia grows out branches from the side of the trunk. Although the branches are quite irregular, giving each plant its own unique shape, overall, it stays upright and compact, giving it a clean look.

The green stems have 4-6 ridges that have very sharp spines.

Yellow-green flowers emerge from the top, attracting pollinators. Deep maroon fruit.

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A quick word on Euphorbias vs Cacti: Euphorbias, including the Euphorbia ingens, are often confused with cacti. Most euphorbias are from Africa, while most cacti are from the Americas. Even though they are not related, they have developed similar ways of surviving the heat and drought, hence the similarities.

The easiest way to tell the two apart are from looking at the spines. If you look closely at the Euphorbia ingens, you'll see that the stems themselves have thorny edges. If you cut it off, white poisonous sap can emerge. If you look at a cactus, you'll see that the spines grow from areoles independently, and you can cut off the spines without damaging the actual stem of the cactus.

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Pests: Euphorbias has minimal pests, which include mealybugs. To remove mealybugs, use insecticidal soap or apply rubbing alcohol directly to the area of infestation using a cotton swab.

Fungal diseases from root rot, dry rot, and harsh weather conditions.

Signs of overwatering: Drooping, squishy texture

Signs of too little water: Shriveling, drying skin

Signs of too much sun: Burning, scarring, fading color

Signs of too little sun: Etiolation, discoloring.

Propagate by using a blade to get cuttings. Use gloves since the white sap is poisonous. Wash off the sap and allow the cutting to dry so that the cut can be healed, which reduces the possibility of rot.

Once a callus has formed, usually after a few days, plant the cutting, and water it.

How much does Candelabra cactus cost?

At our nursery, candelabra cactus costs $15 for a 1-gallon container, $45 for a 5-gallon container, $120 for a 15-gallon container, and $350+ for a 24" box.

Prices are subject to change. Please contact us for the most up-to-date information on pricing. We may have larger sizes available. We provide installation services locally at a separate cost.

Does candelabra cactus flower?

Yes, you will see small yellow-green flowers at the top when it blooms.

HOW TALL does Eurphorbia Ingens get?

Euphorbia ingens can eventually become a 30 foot plus tree if planted in the ground. However, it can take 20 years for the plant to reach that point.