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Fire Stick (Euphorbia tirucalli)

Pencil Cactus (Euphorbia tirucalli) is a succulent shrub or small tree known for its distinctive pencil-like green stems. It produces a highly irritating milky white sap.

Above information is sourced from Wikipedia

Sunlight

High

Watering

Low

Soil

Well-draining, sandy or gritty succulent potting mix.

Temperature

Warm

Habitat

House Plant, Indoor, Outdoor, Greenhouse

Fertilizer

Low

Care Requirements

Light

High

Full sun to bright indirect

Water

Low

Allow soil to dry completely

Soil

Well-draining, sandy or gritty succulent potting mix.

Temperature

Warm

Avoid frost

Habitat

House Plant, Indoor, Outdoor, Greenhouse

Fertilizer

Low

During growing season

Plant Overview

Plant Type

Succulent, Shrub, Tree

Plant Category

Ornamental, Medicinal

Plant Place Type

Ground, Pot

Plant Environment

House Plant, Indoor, Outdoor, Greenhouse

Lifespan

Perennials

Plant Height

2-6 m

Spread

1-3 m

Growth Rate

Moderate to Fast

Leaf Color

Green

Leaf Type

Linear

Flower Size

<1 cm

Optimal Sunlight Lux

60000

Weed Status

Yes

Image Gallery

Flowering & Fruiting Cycles

Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.

Northern hemisphere

Flowering & fruiting calendar

Peak bloom · AprPeak fruit · May
FloweringFruiting
02468JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDecActivity intensityMonths44
Southern hemisphere

Flowering & fruiting calendar

Peak bloom · AprPeak fruit · May
FloweringFruiting
02468JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDecActivity intensityMonths44
Synonyms
Arthrothamnus tirucalli (L.) Klotzsch & Garcke
Euphorbia geayi Costantin & Gallaud
Euphorbia laro Drake
Euphorbia media N.E.Br.
Euphorbia rhipsaloides Lem.
Euphorbia scoparia N.E.Br.
Euphorbia suareziana Croizat
Tirucalia indica Raf.
Tirucalia tirucalli (L.) P.V.Heath
Taxonomy
  • kingdomPlantae
  • divisionTracheophyta
  • classMagnoliopsida
  • orderMalpighiales
  • familyEuphorbiaceae
  • genusEuphorbia
  • speciesEuphorbia tirucalli
Toxicity

Toxic for humans

Yes

Rating: 9/5

Toxic for pets

Yes

Rating: 9/5

Edible

No

The milky white latex (sap) is highly irritating and toxic. Contact with skin can cause severe dermatitis, blistering, and allergic reactions. If it gets into the eyes, it can cause temporary blindness and severe pain. Ingestion can lead to mouth and thro

Additional Care Tips

Water Euphorbia tirucalli deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Overwatering is a common cause of root rot. During winter or cooler periods, reduce watering significantly, perhaps once a month or less, depending on ambient temperatures and humidity. Ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogging.

Pruning is primarily done to maintain shape, control size, or remove damaged/diseased stems. Always wear protective gloves and eye protection when pruning due to the irritating milky sap. Cuttings can be taken for propagation. Prune in late spring or early summer for best results, allowing cuts to callus before propagation.

Euphorbia tirucalli is easily propagated from stem cuttings. Take cuttings 10-15 cm long, allow the cut end to callus for several days in a dry, shaded area to stop the sap flow. Once callused, plant the cuttings in well-draining succulent mix. Keep the soil slightly moist until roots develop, which can take a few weeks. Provide warmth and bright indirect light.

Repotting is generally needed every 2-3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Choose a pot only slightly larger than the previous one, ensuring it has excellent drainage. Use a fresh, well-draining succulent or cactus potting mix. Repot during the active growing season (spring or early summer). Wear protective gear to handle the plant and its sap during repotting.

FAQs

Is Euphorbia tirucalli safe to touch?

No, the milky white sap (latex) of Euphorbia tirucalli is highly irritating. Direct contact with skin can cause severe dermatitis, and contact with eyes can lead to temporary blindness and pain. Always wear gloves and eye protection when handling the plant.

How much sunlight does a Pencil Cactus need?

Pencil Cactus thrives in full sun to bright indirect light. For the best reddish-orange stem coloration, provide at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. It can tolerate partial shade but may appear greener and less vibrant.

How often should I water my Euphorbia tirucalli?

Water your Pencil Cactus thoroughly only when the soil has completely dried out. As a succulent, it is very drought-tolerant. Overwatering is detrimental and can lead to root rot. Reduce watering significantly during cooler months.

Can Euphorbia tirucalli be grown indoors?

Yes, Euphorbia tirucalli makes an excellent indoor plant, provided it receives ample bright light. Place it near a south-facing window or in the brightest spot available. Ensure good air circulation and use a well-draining pot and soil mix.

What causes the stems of my Pencil Cactus to turn red or orange?

The stems of Euphorbia tirucalli often develop vibrant red, orange, or yellow hues when exposed to strong, direct sunlight or cooler temperatures. This coloration is a natural response to environmental stress and is generally a sign of a healthy, well-lit plant.