This aesthetically appealing succulent is a widely adored ornamental house plant across the globe. The Pencil Cactus is unusual in structure and very vibrant in colour.
About this plant
Never get confused by its name. The Pencil Cactus is not at all a cactus. Rather it’s a cactus-like succulent from the Euphorbia genus. It’s readily distinguishable since unlike cactus the subject succulent contains a white milky sap. It is a shrub or small tree in a candelabra pattern. It contains pencil-like cylindrical branches which are smooth, and green. This plant also has small leaves which fall very quickly. It also blooms small flowers.
Tips for the caring of Pencil Cactus
Just like all other succulents the Pencil Cactus also tolerates lots of negligence. You don’t have to think of it every time, just leave it alone in its place and it will do just fine. Alternatively, too much caring might speed up its demise! They like to be ignored! But if would like to enjoy its full-fledged beauty then you should care for it occasionally. Let us see how we may keep this amazing plant fresh, healthy and above all alive:
Water Requirements
This plant is highly drought tolerant. But like all other Euphorbia, the Pencil Cactus cannot endure long-term drought. Therefore, you will need to water every 2 or 3 weeks to keep it hydrated. Irrigation in this manner will be applicable for spring and summer season only.
During the winter the Pencil Cactus goes into the dormant state, so you don’t need to water unless the plant looks too dehydrated or pale.
But it is always wise to check soil moisture to avoid over or under watering. This plant will die from root rot if you overwater. Contrariwise, the stems or branches will appear dried up and flaccid if you under water.
Again, when kept indoors the plant will not receive enough sunlight, so naturally, you don’t have to water much.
Lighting Requirements
The dearth of adequate sunlight for a prolonged period might be disastrous for this plant. It can tolerate partial shade and grows well in the full sun. Regular sunlight will ensure its fresh and lively appearance. If you are planning to keep it indoors then ensure its placement near the window.
Potting & Soil
The Pencil cactus likes well-drained, dry and sandy soil. Soil with less nutrients will be a good choice. While planting in the container you may use cactus or succulent potting mix. You can easily make your potting mix by mixing regular disinfected garden soil with coarse sand in the ratio of 1:2. Instead of clay pot try to use a plastic container as it will retain less moisture and help to keep the soil arid.
Cold Tolerance
This succulent cannot tolerate frost. It can sustain a low temperature of around 30 °F. The ideal temperature for it to thrive well is 65°F-70°F. It can also grow in low humidity if the soil does not retain much moisture.
Propagation
The Pencil Cactus could be grown from seeds. But typically they are propagated from cuttings which is much easier than the former technique. For propagation cut suitable stems and left them aside for 2-3 days for the recovery of the wounds or until it has formed a callus on the cut end. After that just plant the cuttings in well-drained potting mix and keep away from direct sunburn. The roots will start growing within 2-3 weeks and will be fully grown within 4-6 weeks.
Toxicity
The milky white sap from Euphorbia tirucalli is toxic to humans and animals. Skin contact causes severe irritation, redness, and burning sensation. Redness, pain, swelling and even blindness may occur when gets into the eyes. If ingested, pencil cactus can cause burns to the mouth, lips, tongue and vomiting and diarrhea. Therefore, considering its toxicity it should be kept out of the reach of children plus pets.
Quick Facts
- Common Name: Pencil Cactus, Pencil Plant, Pencil Tree, Indian-tree spurge, African Milk Bush, Finger Euphorbia, Finger Tree, Firestick Plants, Milk Bush, Milk Hedge, Naked Lady, Pencil Bush, Pencil Euphorbia, Petroleum Plant, Rubber Euphorbia, Rubber Hedge Euphorbia, Rubber Hedge Plant, Sticks on Fire, Fire Stick Plant
- Category: Succulent
- Scientific Name: Euphorbia tirucalli
- Synonyms: NA
- Family: Euphorbiaceae
- Genus: Euphorbia
- Origin: Africa
- Habitat: Dry bushland thickets, open woodland and grassland
- Life Span: Perennial
- Growth Rate: Fast
- Growing Season: Spring
- Blooming Time: Late spring and early summer
- Flower Color: Green/yellow
- Fruits: NA
- Dormant Time: Winter
- Height: 15 to 30 feet
- Width: 3 to 6 feet
- Exposure: Bright and indirect light
- Maintenance: Low
- Drought Tolerance: Short term
- Water Needs: Minimal
- Frost Tolerant: No
- Toxicity: Toxic
- Humidity: Dry to medium
- Temperature: Around 30 °F or -1.1 °C
- Propagation: Seeds/Stem cuttings
- Planting Time: Spring or early summer
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