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PlantSnap
Plant Care
Firestick plant
(Euphorbia tirucalli Sticks on Fire)
Also Known As
Firestick plant, Pencil tree, Milk bush, Fire stick, Euphorbia tirucalli, Pencil cactus
About This Plant
Euphorbia tirucalli 'Sticks on Fire' is a succulent plant species that belongs to the family Euphorbiaceae. It is a shrub or small tree that can grow up to 20 feet (6 meters) tall in the wild. The stems are green and turn bright red-orange when exposed to direct sunlight. The leaves are small and fall off quickly, leaving the stems looking like sticks. The plant produces small yellow flowers in the spring and summer.
Plant Care Instructions
Outdoor Size Range
Up to 20 feet (6 meters) tall and 10 feet (3 meters) wide
Light Requirements
Sticks on Fire prefers full sun but can also tolerate partial shade. It needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day to maintain its bright red-orange color.
Humidity Needs
Sticks on Fire can tolerate low humidity levels but prefers moderate to high humidity. It can benefit from occasional misting during hot and dry weather.
Fertilizing Schedule
The plant does not require frequent fertilization. Feed it once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer diluted to half strength.
Pruning Guidelines
Prune the plant in the spring to control its size and shape. Wear gloves and protective clothing when handling the plant, as its sap can cause skin irritation.
Common Pests and Diseases
Sticks on Fire is relatively pest-resistant but can occasionally be attacked by mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. Treat infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Indoor Size Range
2-6 feet (61-183 cm) tall and 1-3 feet (30-91 cm) wide
Watering Schedule
The plant is drought-tolerant and prefers well-draining soil. Water it deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Overwatering can cause root rot.
Temperature Range
The plant can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, from 50°F (10°C) to 100°F (38°C). However, it is not frost-tolerant and should be protected from temperatures below 40°F (4°C).
Growing Season
Sticks on Fire can be grown year-round in warm climates. In cooler climates, it should be grown as a houseplant or overwintered indoors.
Growing Difficulty Level
Sticks on Fire is easy to grow and low-maintenance. It is a good choice for beginners and busy gardeners.
USDA Hardiness Zones
Sticks on Fire is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Did You Know?
The sap of Sticks on Fire is toxic and can cause severe irritation and even blindness if it comes into contact with the eyes. It has been used in traditional medicine to treat skin conditions and as a purgative.
