Members only
Unlock the Plant Library
Care guides for 220+ plants: light, water, soil, pets, seasonal calendars and troubleshooting. Enter the password from your welcome email to get in.
Plant Profiles / Firesticks
Photos: Wikimedia Commons
Firesticks
Euphorbia tirucalli 'Sticks on Fire' · Pencil cactus, red pencil tree
Pencil-thin stems that glow orange-red in cool, sunny weather. A bold sculptural succulent.
Full sunLight
Every 2–3 weeksWater
Very easyCare level
Care at a glance
Light
Full sun
ShadeFull sun
Sun for colour.
Water
Every 2–3 weeks
DryWet
Let dry.
Humidity
Low
LowHigh
Dry.
Temperature
5–40°C (41–104°F)
CoolWarm
Frost tender.
Growth
Moderate
SlowFast
1–2 m in pots.
Soil
Cactus mix
LeanRich
Gritty.
Fertiliser
Rarely
RarelyOften
Light.
Pet safety
Toxic
SafeToxic
Sap is highly irritating.
About this plant
Native to Africa. Its milky sap is highly irritating to skin and eyes; always wear gloves.
Best spots
Sunny balconies and modern pots.
Plant facts
| Botanical name | Euphorbia tirucalli 'Sticks on Fire' |
| Family | Euphorbiaceae |
| Origin | Africa |
| Plant type | Succulent shrub |
| Mature size | 1–2 m |
| Growth rate | Moderate |
| Foliage | Red pencil stems |
| Toxicity | Highly toxic sap |
| Propagation | Cuttings |
Seasonal care calendar
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Colour
Active growth
ColourActive growth
Based on Southern Hemisphere seasons.
Troubleshooting
| Green stems | Warmth or shade. |
| Rot | Wet. |
| Leggy | Light. |
| Frost | Protect. |
| Sap on skin | Wash immediately. |
Common questions
Sap?
Wear gloves and eye protection.
Colour?
Cool sun.
Pets?
Toxic.
Cactus?
No.
