There are three very important care points for euphorbia abyssinica. First, ensure that the plant receives ample sunlight, preferably full sun exposure, to achieve healthy growth. Second, make sure that the soil dries out completely between watering. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which is the primary concern to watch for with the plant. Third, ensure that the plant is kept in a well-ventilated area. This prevents the occurrence of fungal issues.
The Abyssinian spurge is frost-tender. It should be planted in frost-free zones only.
As has been stated, an Abyssinian euphorbia tolerates moderate shade. If it has been growing in shade, it should be slowly hardened off before placing it in full sun, as the plant will be severely scorched if moved too suddenly from shade into sun.
Strong winds can negatively affect the physical appearance of an Abyssinian euphorbia tree. A strong wind may cause the columns to smash into each other, leading to permanent scarring. Therefore, if you want to keep the Abyssinian spurge for its aesthetics, it is best to plant it in a location where strong winds are not a big issue.
The Abyssinian spurge can be pruned for shape and branching. Prune the plant to maintain its shape, and remove any dead or damaged branches. Pruning is best done during the growing season. Use clean, sharp tools and wear gloves to protect yourself from its toxic sap.
Precautions
Like almost all Euphorbias, Euphorbia abyssinica has caustic, toxic, milky sap that causes irritation and blistering if it comes into contact with the skin. The sap can also cause temporary or permanent blindness if it enters the eye. therefore, it is important to wear gloves while working with the cuttings of Abyssinian euphorbia. Clean the pruning shears thoroughly after pruning, so that any unwanted contact with the sap is avoided. If contact is made with the white sap, take care to not touch face or eyes before washing hands with soap and water.
The Abyssinian spurge is also toxic to pets. The sap can cause skin irritation and, if ingested, can lead to severe gastrointestinal issues. Handle the plant with care and keep it out of reach of children and pets.
References
Bein, E. and others (1996) Useful Trees and Shrubs in Eritrea: Identification, Propagation and Management for Agricultural and Pastoral Communities. Regional Soil Conservation Unit: Nairobi.
Bekele-Tesemma, Azene (2007) Useful Trees of Ethiopia: Identification, Propagation and Management in 17 Agroecological Zones. RELMA in ICRAF Project: Nairobi.
EarthOne. How To Grow Euphorbia abyssinica. Retrieved from https://earthone.io/plant/euphorbia%20abyssinica?srsltid=AfmBOop5q_kv9MqJ6plOlrZFFDvN_XXuMdCHr9ELK8Iu3I0TFFiKEswn
Encyclopedia of Living forms. “Euphorbia abyssinica” Text available under a CC-BY-SA Creative Commons Attribution License. www.llifle.com 14 Nov. 2005. 06 Sep 2025. Retrieved from https://www.llifle.com/Encyclopedia/SUCCULENTS/Family/Euphorbiaceae/1958/Euphorbia_abyssinica
Fern, Ken (2025) Euphorbia abyssinica J.F.Gmel. Useful Tropical Plants. Tropical Plants Database, Ken Fern. tropical.theferns.info. 2025-09-06. Retrieved from https://tropical.theferns.info/viewtropical.php?id=Euphorbia+abyssinica
Oxford University, Department of Biology. Oxford University Plants 400: Euphorbia abyssinica. Retrieved from https://herbaria.plants.ox.ac.uk/bol/plants400/Profiles/EF/Euphorbab
PictureThis. How to Grow and Care for Euphorbia abyssinica. Retrieved from https://www.picturethisai.com/care/Euphorbia_abyssinica.html
Plant Resources of Tropical Africa (PROTA). Euphorbia abyssinica. Retrieved from https://prota.prota4u.org/protav8.asp?g=pe&p=Euphorbia%20abyssinica
Royal Horticultural Society (2025) Euphorbia abyssinica – Abyssinian spurge. RHS Gardening. Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/7035/euphorbia-abyssinica/details
World of Succulents. Euphorbia abyssinica (Desert Candle). Retrieved from https://worldofsucculents.com/euphorbia-abyssinica-desert-candle/#google_vignette