Euphorbia tirucalli - Pencil Cacti
$22.99
5” Pot
Euphorbia tirucalli, commonly known as the Pencil Cactus or Firestick Plant, is a striking, low-maintenance succulent native to Africa and India. Despite its name, it is not a true cactus, but rather a member of the Euphorbia family, known for its slender, pencil-like branches and highly toxic milky sap.
Key Characteristics
- Appearance: Features succulent, pencil-thin green stems that can turn vibrant orange, red, or pink at the tips when exposed to bright sun or environmental stress.
- Size: Can reach heights of up to 30 feet in the wild, but is commonly kept at a 2–6 foot height as a container-grown houseplant.
- Growth Habit: Upright, branching, and dense, making it excellent for modern, sculptural home decor.
Care and Maintenance
- Light: Thrives in bright, direct sunlight, requiring at least 6 hours of sun daily to maintain its color and shape.
- Watering: Highly drought-tolerant. Use the "soak and dry" method, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings to prevent root rot.
- Soil: Requires fast-draining soil, such as a dedicated cactus or succulent mix.
- Temperature: Thrives in warm temperatures (65-75°F) and cannot tolerate frost.
Toxicity Warning
The milky sap of Euphorbia tirucalli is highly toxic and caustic.
- Skin/Eyes: Contact can cause severe irritation, rashes, and even temporary blindness.
- Safety: Always wear gloves and eye protection when handling or pruning the plant.
- Pets/Children: Keep out of reach of children and pets, as it is unsafe for them