Chocolate Drops

Plant Type: perennial, succulent tree
Plant Height: 6–15 feet (can reach up to 25 feet in ideal conditions)
Spread: 4–8 feet
Flower Color: yellow-green
Sun Exposure: Full sun

Chocolate Drops / Euphorbia ingens ‘Chocolate Drops’: A Bold, Tree-Form Euphorbia with Striking Color Contrast
Euphorbia ingens ‘Chocolate Drops’, commonly known as Chocolate Drops, is a dramatic, upright succulent tree prized for its unique brownish-green coloring and sculptural branching form. A cultivar of the iconic Euphorbia ingens (Candelabra Tree), this variety stands out with its rich, chocolate-toned stems that deepen in hue under full Arizona sun. Native to southern Africa, it thrives in hot, arid conditions and adds an architectural statement to desert landscapes, blending perfectly with modern, Mediterranean, and Southwestern design aesthetics.

Key Features of Euphorbia ingens ‘Chocolate Drops’
This euphorbia forms a tall, candelabra-like structure composed of thick, four- to five-angled stems with prominent ridges and paired spines along their edges. The stems display a remarkable gradient of color—green at the base transitioning to a deep bronze or chocolate tone toward the top when exposed to intense light. During late fall or early winter, clusters of small, yellow-green cyathia appear near the upper joints, adding subtle contrast against the darker stems. The plant’s clean lines, vertical growth, and rich coloring make it a stunning focal point in large-scale desert gardens or as a living sculpture near architectural features.

Growing and Care Tips
Euphorbia ingens ‘Chocolate Drops’ thrives in full sun and extremely well-drained soil. In the Phoenix Valley, it should be planted in areas that receive bright, direct sunlight throughout the day to maintain its distinctive dark coloration. Young plants may benefit from temporary afternoon shade during their first summer to prevent sun scorch. Overwatering is the most common mistake—allow soil to dry completely between irrigations. The plant is frost-sensitive and should be protected or wrapped during cold snaps below 35°F. When grown in containers, ensure they have large drainage holes and use a cactus or succulent mix blended with coarse sand or pumice. As with all euphorbias, the milky latex sap is caustic and can irritate skin or eyes—handle with care.

Landscaping Uses
Chocolate Drops adds height, texture, and deep color contrast to Arizona desert landscapes. It serves beautifully as a dramatic focal plant, anchoring a design with vertical strength. It pairs well with silvery or golden plants such as Blue Glow Agave, Desert Spoon, or Golden Barrel Cactus, creating dynamic color interplay. Its tall, columnar form also complements walls, entryways, and modern architectural backdrops. In large pots or raised beds, it becomes a living sculpture that defines outdoor spaces with minimal maintenance.

Summary
Euphorbia ingens ‘Chocolate Drops’ is an architectural masterpiece for arid landscapes, combining dark, sculptural form with desert toughness. Its candelabra shape and rich coloration make it one of the most visually captivating euphorbias for Arizona gardens, delivering year-round structure and striking contrast with virtually no maintenance needs.

Three Timbers Installation Guide (Feel Free to Follow):
Euphorbia ingens ‘Chocolate Drops’ Planting Guide:
Location: Full sun; ideal placement ensures at least 6–8 hours of direct light daily to maintain its deep chocolate coloring. Provide brief afternoon shade for young plants during extreme summer heat.
Soil: Use a sharply draining mix—combine native soil with cactus mix, gravel, or pumice. Avoid clay-heavy soils to prevent moisture retention.
Spacing: Allow 5–8 feet between plants to accommodate mature branching and airflow.
Planting Depth: Set the root crown level with the soil surface; avoid burying the lower stem ridges.
Support: Not required; as the plant matures, it naturally forms a stable, upright trunk and balanced branching pattern.

Watering Guide:
Watering After Planting: Water thoroughly after installation to settle the soil, then allow it to dry completely before watering again. During establishment (first 3–4 months), water every 14–20 days depending on weather and soil drainage.
When is the Plant Established? Euphorbia ingens ‘Chocolate Drops’ is considered established after 8–10 months, once steady new growth appears and the stems begin to thicken at the base.
Watering Once Established: Water deeply once every 4–6 weeks during the hottest months; avoid watering during winter dormancy. Overwatering can lead to root and stem rot.
Drip Irrigation Setup: Install one low-flow emitter (0.5–1 gallon per hour) about 10–12 inches from the base, directed outward to encourage strong lateral root development. Run irrigation infrequently and allow soil to dry fully between cycles.
General Watering Tips: Always ensure the top several inches of soil are dry before re-watering. Avoid allowing water to pool around the base of the plant. Apply a layer of decorative gravel or decomposed granite to retain light surface moisture and suppress weeds, but keep it several inches away from the trunk to allow for airflow and long-term health.