Pencil Cactus

Euphorbia tirucalliAlso known as: Firestick Plant, Milk Bush, Sticks on Fire

Pencil Cactus is a striking succulent tree with pencil-thin, cylindrical green branches that can turn vibrant orange-red in bright light. Native to Africa and India, it can grow up to 6 feet (1.8 m) indoors. Despite its name, it's not a true cactus but a Euphorbia with toxic, milky sap.

Easy Care

bright-direct

Perennial

Quick Care Summary

Light
bright-direct

Temperature Range
50-100°F (10-38°C)

Ideal Temp
75°F (24°C)

Toxic to Pets

This plant is toxic to cats and dogs if ingested. Keep it out of reach of pets, or consider pet-safe alternatives. Symptoms of ingestion may include drooling, vomiting, or difficulty swallowing.

Seasonal Care Schedule

Adjust your care routine based on the season for optimal plant health.

Watering Schedule

Season	Schedule
Spring	Every 2-3 weeks, when soil is completely dry
Summer	Every 2 weeks
Fall	Every 3-4 weeks
Winter	Monthly or less

Very drought-tolerant. Err on the side of underwatering - overwatering causes root rot.

Fertilizing Schedule

Season	Schedule
Spring	Once at start of growing season with diluted fertilizer
Summer	Once mid-summer
Fall	No fertilizing needed
Winter	No fertilizing needed

Very light feeder. Too much fertilizer can cause weak, leggy growth.

Pruning

Frequency: As needed to control size

Best Season: Spring or summer

ALWAYS wear gloves and eye protection - sap is extremely irritating. Prune to shape or control size.

Repotting

Frequency: Every 3-4 years

Best Season: Spring

Use cactus/succulent soil. Heavy plant - use sturdy, weighted pot. Handle with extreme care.

Propagation Methods

Stem cuttings allowed to callous for 1-2 weeks
Plant calloused cuttings in dry soil
Wear gloves - sap is toxic and highly irritating

Common Problems

Soft, mushy stems: Overwatering and root rot
Loss of color: Not enough bright light
Dropping branches: Cold damage or overwatering
Slow growth: Normal - this is a slow-growing plant

Pro Tips

SAP IS HIGHLY TOXIC - can cause severe skin burns and blindness
Keep away from children, pets, and high-traffic areas
Needs full sun for best orange-red coloration
Very architectural plant - makes a bold statement

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