While true cacti are primarily native to the Americas, several succulent species thrive in Africa's arid climates, often referred to as "African cacti" due to their similar appearance and adaptations. These plants offer more than just their striking appearance; they bring resilience and an exotic touch to any collection.
Euphorbia trigona, also known as African Milk Tree.
Spotlight on Specific African Succulents
Here, we will reveal the top African succulents, exploring their unique features and care requirements:
Euphorbia trigona (African Milk Tree)
E. Euphorbia trigona, also known as the African milk tree, cathedral cactus, or Abyssinian euphorbia, is a species of flowering plant that originates from Central Africa. Somewhat common in cultivation as a houseplant or as a hedge, the species is one of the euphorbias with succulent stems and branches as an adaptation to arid climates. This succulent shrub has an upright stem and many branches that also grow upward. The stem and branches can have two or three sides.
The stem itself is dark green with V-shaped light green patterns. The 5 mm (1⁄4 in) thorns occur in pairs on the stem's ridges. The drop shaped leaves grow from between the two thorns on each ridge. Euphorbia trigona can withstand brief cold temperatures of down to −3 °C (27 °F). It prefers sandy soil but can cope with most types of well-drained soil. It can root easily from stem cuttings, if allowed to dry for 3-7 days before planting so that it can form a callus and not rot. As with many other Euphorbia species, the latex from the plant is poisonous and can cause skin irritations. It is a pest-free plant.
Read also: Experience Fad's Fine African Cuisine
Namibian Dollar Plant (Jade Plant)
The Namibian Dollar Plant, commonly known as the Jade Plant, can reach sizes of 1-2 m (3-6.5 ft). It's an African succulent that thrives in the same conditions as African cacti. Its fleshy, coin leaves make it look almost like the Elephant Bush. This plant requires bright light and occasional watering, making it a prosperous feature in indoor cactus gardens.
Spiral Cactus
Although not a true cactus, the Spiral Cactus grows in a distinctive spiral shape up to 30 cm (12 in) in diameter, like most traditional American cacti. This rare succulent prefers a sunny location and well-draining soil similar to the Elephant Bush. Its mesmerizing spiral pattern and resilience make it a nice addition to any collection of African cacti.
Elephant Bush
The Elephant Bush is a succulent shrub, growing up to 1-2 m (3-6.5 ft) in height. It's an African succulent known for its small, round leaves and thick stems that resemble a miniature tree which is often found in South Africa. Ideal for bright, sunny spots with occasional watering.
Baseball Plant
Resembling a ball, this African cactus that is tiny stands at a compact height of 20 cm (8 in) tall. The Baseball Plant is drought-resistant, needing full sun and minimal watering, characteristic of African cacti. Its geometric shape and stripes give the relatively low maintenance succulent cactus the look of a baseball.
Mother of Thousands
Mother of Thousands has fleshy, blue-green leaves that grow upright and bear tiny plantlets along their edges, which fall off and easily take root in surrounding soil. This African cactus plant is fascinating not only for its reproductive strategy but also for its ability to thrive in dry conditions, making it a popular choice for low-maintenance succulent collections.
Read also: The Story Behind Cachapas
Karoo Rose
The Karoo Rose, reaching just 10 cm (4 in) tall, is a rare and very small succulent cactus. It requires a bright environment and minimal water, similar to the Baseball Cactus Plant and other cacti on this list, to mimic the arid African landscapes it thrives in. Its leaves form a small cactus flower, blooming with white or yellow flowers that add beauty to its robust form.
Pickle Plant
This quirky succulent can be identified by its color spines and size, it grows to 45 cm (18 in) tall and resembles a pickle with its elongated, green, bumpy stems. The Pickle Plant favors a sunny spot and occasional watering. The African cactus plant blooms with purple cactus flowers, which add vibrant color to its unique appearance.
Caring for South African Succulents
Many South African succulents are cold-tolerant to a certain degree. Consider summer growers, winter growers, or mixed with opportunist growers when planning your garden. Select plants based on parameters such as:
- Succulents
- Sandy soil
- Full sun
- Good in a pot
- Drought resistant
Also, consider the climate zone, such as Zone 4 (Highveld), which indicates cold nights and frost.
Table of African Succulents
| Plant Name | Size | Light Requirements | Watering | Unique Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Euphorbia trigona | Up to several feet tall | Bright, indirect light | Allow soil to dry between waterings | Poisonous latex |
| Namibian Dollar Plant | 1-2 m (3-6.5 ft) | Bright light | Occasional watering | Fleshy, coin-like leaves |
| Spiral Cactus | Up to 30 cm (12 in) diameter | Sunny | Well-draining soil | Distinctive spiral shape |
| Elephant Bush | 1-2 m (3-6.5 ft) | Bright, sunny | Occasional watering | Small, round leaves resembling a miniature tree |
| Baseball Plant | 20 cm (8 in) tall | Full sun | Minimal watering | Geometric shape resembling a baseball |
| Mother of Thousands | Varies | Dry conditions | Low-maintenance | Plantlets along leaf edges |
| Karoo Rose | 10 cm (4 in) tall | Bright environment | Minimal water | Leaves form a flower shape |
| Pickle Plant | 45 cm (18 in) tall | Sunny spot | Occasional watering | Elongated, bumpy stems |
Baja & Old World Succulent Garden Walkthrough Safari Park
Read also: Techniques of African Jewellery
