Euphorbia tirucalli, "Firestick Pencil Cactus"

This unique looking succulent is native to Africa. It is not a true cactus, but a member of the Euphorbia family, related to a Poinsettia. All parts of this plant are extremely toxic.

LIGHT

This plant can adapt to part sun, but some direct sun is beneficial and often enhances the color of some varieties. 

WATER

This plant is very drought tolerant, especially in the winter. Spring and summer allow the top 50% of soil to dry between waterings, approximately every two to three weeks. Fall and winter allow the soil to dry completely, maybe once per month. Shriveled leaves indicate that the plant needs more water.

FERTILIZER

Spring and summer fertilizer 1x/month with a balanced houseplant fertilizer at half strength.

TEMPERATURE

Prefers warmer temperatures in the 65-85 degree F range. Can tolerate temperatures to 50 degrees F in the winter if given very little water.

TOXICITY

Very poisonous plant. The sap is extremely toxic.