Can I Buy a Candelabra Tree and Plant in Arkansas?

If you live in Arkansas and love adding unique and exotic plants to your garden, you may have considered buying a candelabra tree. Also known as Euphorbia ingens or candelabrum, this plant is a species of flowering plant in the spurge family.

With its unique shape and striking appearance, the candelabra tree is a popular choice for homeowners looking to add a touch of exoticism to their gardens. However, before making your purchase, it's important to understand whether the candelabra tree is suitable for planting in Arkansas and what requirements it needs to thrive.

Origin and Characteristics of the Candelabra Tree

The candelabra tree originates from South Africa, where it grows in hot, dry climates. It can reach up to 30 feet tall and 20 feet wide, with multiple branches that resemble the shape of a candelabra. These branches are thick, fleshy, and green, with small, yellow flowers that bloom in the late winter and spring.

While the candelabra tree is a striking plant that can add a touch of exoticism to any garden, it's important to remember that it requires specific growing conditions to thrive.

Climate Requirements for a Candelabra Tree

Before buying a candelabra tree, it's essential to understand the climate requirements for this plant. As mentioned earlier, the candelabra tree comes from a hot, dry climate, which means it needs a lot of sun and minimal water.

In Arkansas, the climate is generally too humid for the candelabra tree to thrive, particularly during the summer months. The plant prefers arid or semi-arid climates with low humidity, which means it requires a lot of watering if planted in a humid environment. Additionally, the candelabra tree is not frost-tolerant and cannot survive in temperatures below 28°F.

So, Can You Plant a Candelabra Tree in Arkansas?

The simple answer is no. While it's technically possible to plant a candelabra tree in Arkansas, it's not recommended due to the specific climate requirements of this plant. Unless you're willing to invest in special equipment to create an arid, desert-like environment for your candelabra tree, it's unlikely that it will thrive in Arkansas.

Alternative Plants for Those Living in Arkansas

If you're looking for a unique and exotic plant to add to your garden and live in Arkansas, there are plenty of other options you can choose from. For example, the Southern Magnolia is a popular choice for homeowners in Arkansas thanks to its beautiful, fragrant flowers and glossy, dark-green leaves.

Other options for those living in Arkansas include the Sweetbay Magnolia, Dogwood, and the Eastern Redbud. These plants are native to the state and thrive in the climate, making them an ideal choice for gardeners looking to add some local charm to their landscape.

Conclusion

While the candelabra tree is an exotic and beautiful plant, it's important to remember that it requires specific climate conditions to thrive. Unfortunately, these conditions are not found in Arkansas, making it difficult to grow this plant in the state. Instead, consider exploring some of the beautiful native plant options available that are guaranteed to thrive in your garden.