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Description
Euphorbia Tirucalli Sticks On Fire, also known as Firesticks or Red Pencil Tree, is a succulent plant that belongs to the Euphorbia family. It is native to Africa and Madagascar but has become popular as a houseplant in many parts of the world due to its striking appearance.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Euphorbiaceae |
| Genus | Euphorbia |
Appearance
Euphorbia Tirucalli Sticks On Fire has fleshy green stems that turn bright red or orange with exposure to sunlight. The stems are pencil-thin and grow up to 3 feet long. The plant produces small yellow flowers that are not very noticeable. The leaves are small and fall off quickly, leaving the stems bare.
Care Guide
Water: Euphorbia Tirucalli Sticks On Fire is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering. Allow the soil to dry out completely before watering. Overwatering can lead to root rot.
Fertilization: Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring to fall).
Soil: Use a well-draining cactus soil mix. The plant prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0.
Sunlight: Euphorbia Tirucalli Sticks On Fire thrives in bright, direct sunlight. It can also tolerate partial shade.
Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 10 to 12.
Common Pests & Diseases
Euphorbia Tirucalli Sticks On Fire is susceptible to mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant is also prone to root rot if overwatered.
Habitat
Euphorbia Tirucalli Sticks On Fire is native to semi-arid regions of Africa and Madagascar. It grows in rocky, well-draining soils in full sun.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Euphorbia Tirucalli Sticks On Fire poisonous?
A: Yes, the sap of the plant is toxic and can cause skin irritation and eye damage.
Q: Can Euphorbia Tirucalli Sticks On Fire be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, the plant can be easily propagated from stem cuttings. Allow the cuttings to dry out for a few days before planting them in well-draining soil.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Euphorbia Tirucalli Sticks On Fire?
A: Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring to fall).
Q: Can Euphorbia Tirucalli Sticks On Fire be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown indoors as long as it receives bright, direct sunlight.
Related Plants
- Euphorbia milii
- Euphorbia lactea
- Euphorbia trigona
References
- “Euphorbia tirucalli.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282747.
- “Euphorbia tirucalli.” PlantZAfrica, www.plantzafrica.com/plantefg/euphortiruc.htm.
- “Euphorbia tirucalli.” University of Florida, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences Extension, edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fp037.
