How to Propagate Euphorbia Trigona

Indigenous to the island of Madagascar, Euphorbia trigona, is commonly known as the African milk plant for the milky white sap that streams from the plant when cut. A curious-looking succulent, the plant has long, fleshy, triangular stems, the edges of which are trimmed with tiny spines. The stems are also often tipped with small oval leaves that grow from the edges. As with many other succulents, the offshoot stems of E. trigona propagate readily from cuttings, when properly prepared.

Garden soil
Coarse sand
Peat moss
Plant pot
Razor knife

Instructions

- 1
  Combine equal amounts of moist garden soil, coarse sand and peat moss to produce a succulent medium. Fill a 4- to 6-inch plant pot with the soil mixture.
- 2
  Cut a small branching stem from the parent euphorbia at the base where the small stem meets the larger stem, using the razor knife.
- 3
  Set the cutting in a warm protected area, away from humidity. Allow the cut end of the cutting to dry out and form a callus. This helps prevent the cut end from rotting when planted.
- 4
  Dig a hole deep enough so the planted portion of the stem will support the plant. Insert the cut end of the cutting into the soil. Press the soil down around the stem.
- 5
  Place the newly planted cutting in a warm and sunny area. Water the cutting after one week. Watch for new growth. Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings, as the plant becomes established.

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