Pencil Cactus Firestick
*Plant height will vary.
Despite this plant being called a cactus, it is a euphorbia, which makes it more of a succulent. The Pencil Cactus can glow a unique orange, coral, yellow shade when placed in bright sun. Meaning it is totally ok to place in a sunny window sill or sunny outdoor spot.
Part Sun
Low
Easy
Pet Toxic
The Dirt
Native to South Africa and India. The Pencil Cactus can grow to be 30ft tall, however, at home they typically do not exceed 6ft. These plants are drought tolerant and fairly pest resistant. If planted outdoors it can produce small yellow flowers, at the top, that attract bees and other pollianators. Soil must be somewhat gritty and with good drainage to encourage a healthy plant. Easy to propagate and roots readily into soil.
Part Sun
This plant likes most rooms with windows facing west or east. You could place it in a spot away from a very sunny window – as light intensity goes down quick as you move away from the light source.
Medium
Water one a week. Before watering, feel the soil, top layer should be dry, if not dry wait a day or two. If the soil still is wet you risk giving the plant too much water, you don’t want it to rot.
Pet Toxic
Only when ingested it may cause mild oral and gastrointestinal upsetness. Keep out of reach from pets and small children.
Pencil Cactus Firestick
Care Tips
This plant has a milky white sap that oozes when cut
Pencil Cactus can turn grey or become droopy if given too much water
Native to Soth Africa & India
Common Names
Firestick Plant
Sticks on Fire
Pencil Tree
Milk Bush
Finger Tree
Indian Tree Spurge
Botanical Name
Euphoria Tirucalli
Family
Euphorbiaceae