1 named cultivar

‘Blackbird’Blackbird Spurge

perennial

Gofa Candelabra Tree

The Story

Plant Bio

A large, tree-like succulent native to East Africa, forming a single trunk with a crown of large, fleshy leaves. Highly drought-tolerant.

Distinguished by its massive, paddle-shaped, fleshy leaves clustered at the branch tips. The plant produces a toxic milky latex when cut.

Uses & Benefits:

Euphorbia ampliphylla features striking silvery foliage and unique form, making it a standout in xeriscapes and rock gardens.

Its drought tolerance reduces water needs, ideal for sustainable gardens.

Provides habitat and nectar for native pollinators and beneficial insects.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

240 inches

Width

120 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

Water

Low

Humidity

Low

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

East Africa

Toxicity

Yes

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring.
Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity.
Water sparingly once established, avoiding overwatering.
Fertilize with a cactus or succulent mix monthly during growing season.
Divide mature plants in early spring for propagation.
Mulch lightly to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature.

Pro Tip

Use well-draining sandy soil and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide bright, indirect sunlight for optimal growth 🌞
Water only when soil is dry to prevent rot 💧
Use cactus-specific fertilizer during the growing season
Ensure good air circulation around plants
Repot in well-draining soil when rootbound

Don't

Overwater or let soil stay soggy ❌
Expose to freezing temperatures ❄️
Use heavy, clay soils that retain moisture
Neglect sunlight requirements
Overfertilize, which can cause leggy growth

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Plant
Propagate
Prune
Winter Prep

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Arid succulent garden with silvery foliageDesert-themed rock garden borderLow-maintenance drought-tolerant landscape

Companion Plants

Agave Sedum Yucca Aloe Echinocactus

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Gofa Candelabra Tree questions

What zones can Gofa Candelabra Tree grow in?

Gofa Candelabra Tree is hardy in USDA Zone 10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Gofa Candelabra Tree deer resistant?

Yes — Gofa Candelabra Tree is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Gofa Candelabra Tree bloom?

Gofa Candelabra Tree typically blooms in late fall through early spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Gofa Candelabra Tree need full sun?

Gofa Candelabra Tree does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Gofa Candelabra Tree drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Gofa Candelabra Tree handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.