Because of its proximity to humans, medical providers in regions where the plant is widespread must be aware of its toxicity. ![]() Although native to Africa, it is used extensively in the southern United States for ornamental purposes. Euphorbia tirucalli produces an abundant amount of latex when pieces of the plant are broken or damaged. Many Euphorbia species secrete a white, milky sap, called latex, that can cause harmful effects through dermal or mucous membrane contact, particularly ocular exposure.Įuphorbia tirucalli, also commonly referred to as the pencil cactus, milk bush, and firestick plant grows as a shrub or small tree without leaves, has succulent-like branches, and may grow up to 12 meters high. Species such as Euphorbia tirucalli (pencil cactus), Euphorbia milii (crown of thorns), and Euphorbia pulcherrima (Poinsettia) are commonly used as decorative houseplants and in landscaping. Plants belonging to the genus Euphorbia have been used in folk medicine to treat various conditions throughout ancient history. Also known as the spurge family, it is divided into multiple genera. The cactus will hit your ceiling in just a few years, so don’t be afraid to prune it and use the cuttings to make new pencil cactus plants.Euphorbiaceae is a large family of flowering plants found worldwide and encompasses over 8,000 species. Once new growth commences, gradually introduce the plant to higher light and reduce watering. Insert the cuttings into the medium at least an inch (2.5 cm.) deep and mist.Ĭaring for a pencil cactus cutting requires low light and slightly more moisture than fully established plants. Take cuttings with a sterile razor blade and let them dry for two days to form a callus. You will need small pots, a soilless medium to prevent rot and pathogens and a misting bottle. Great care must be taken when harvesting and planting these to avoid the sap, but the cuttings will root readily. Pencil cactus is very easy to propagate with cuttings. In most cases it can be cleared up with antihistamine but occasionally more severe reactions occur and are difficult to clear. Even eye protection is necessary because the pencil cactus plant produces a toxin that can cause an anaphylactic reaction. Allow the plant to dry out between irrigations.Ĭare must be taken when caring for a pencil cactus to avoid the sap. It will need water approximately every two to three weeks in summer but no water in winter. (18 C.) or warmer are necessary when learning how to care for a pencil cactus. Full sun and temperatures of at least 65 F. The container to use could be an unglazed pot which will allow excess moisture to evaporate.Įuphorbia plants are quite adapted to limited fertility environments, and care of pencil cactus requires only one fertilization in spring. The soil must be slightly gritty and well draining. How to Care for a Pencil CactusĪ pencil cactus needs very little care and can even be neglected if it’s planted and situated correctly. ![]() The new growth on the ends may be tinged pink and have tiny leaves which disappear as the branch matures. The branches are the diameter of a pencil, which give rise to the name. The stems are slender and slightly toothed with no obvious foliage. Euphorbia tirucalli, or pencil cactus, is a tropical plant that may become 30 feet (9 m.) tall in habitat. The plant is ideal for sunny warm spots indoors or greenhouse growing. ![]() The pencil cactus is a large plant native to Africa and India. Let’s learn how to grow pencil cactus in your home. It is an excellent houseplant and provides an interesting silhouette. The pencil cactus needs high levels of light and moderately low moisture. Be cautious when caring for a pencil cactus the sap is toxic and may cause problems in some people. Another common name for the plant is Milkbush due to the cloudy sap it releases when injured. The pencil cactus plant is in the Euphorbia family of succulents.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |