Description
The Firestick Plant, also known as Euphorbia tirucalli ‘Sticks on Fire’, is a dramatic, sculptural succulent known for its vibrant color and low-maintenance nature. It’s often used in modern landscaping, containers, and indoor sunny spots.
🔥 Firestick Plant – Essentials
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| 🔍 Botanical name | Euphorbia tirucalli ‘Sticks on Fire’ |
| 🌍 Also called | Pencil Cactus, Firesticks, Sticks on Fire, Naked Lady |
| 🌱 Type | Succulent shrub / Euphorbia |
| 🌿 Appearance | Thin, cylindrical stems that turn red, orange, and yellow in sun |
| 📏 Size | 3–6 ft (indoor); up to 20+ ft outdoors in ideal climates |
| 🌞 Light | Full sun for brightest color; tolerates partial sun |
| 💧 Watering | Infrequent – let soil dry out completely |
| 🌡 Hardiness | Zones 9–11 (frost-sensitive); grow indoors in cooler areas |
| ⚠️ Toxicity | Highly toxic sap – wear gloves & eye protection when handling |
🎨 Color & Growth
-
New growth starts green
-
With sun exposure (especially in cool temps), the plant flushes fiery red, coral, and gold
-
Stunning in sun-drenched patios, rock gardens, or modern containers
⚠️ Caution: Toxic White Sap
-
The milky latex can cause:
-
Skin burns
-
Eye irritation (even temporary blindness)
-
Nausea or vomiting if ingested
-
-
Always wear gloves when pruning or repotting
-
Keep away from pets and children
🪴 Care Tips
| Care | Tip |
|---|---|
| 💡 Light | Needs bright light or full sun to turn red |
| 💧 Water | Water deeply, but only when soil is completely dry |
| 🪨 Soil | Use fast-draining cactus/succulent mix |
| 🌸 Fertilizer | Optional — light feeding in spring/summer with succulent fertilizer |
| ✂️ Pruning | Prune for shape (with protection!) and to manage size |
| 🔄 Propagation | Stem cuttings – let them dry 3–5 days before planting |
🏡 Indoor vs Outdoor
-
Indoors: Needs lots of light – place in south-facing window or under a grow light
-
Outdoors: Perfect for hot, dry gardens — low water, high visual impact
✅ Why People Love Firestick Plants
-
Eye-catching color all year (especially in winter)
-
Low water needs = drought-tolerant
-
No leaves = clean look, little mess
-
Great for modern, minimalist, or desert-style designs
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.