The pencil cactus (Euphorbia tirucalli) is an interesting shrub with succulent foliage that’s native to semi-arid tropical climates. It can grow quite large in the wild—up to 30 feet tall and 6-10 feet wide. Indoors, the plant will stay at a more manageable 2-6 feet tall and 1-3 feet wide.
In the late spring and early summer, small flowers appear at the ends of the green branches. This plant lacks the sharp spines that are commonly found on many cacti. Although commonly known as pencil cactus, it’s actually not a member of the cactus family.
The pencil cactus is often grown as a houseplant, though care must be taken due to its toxic components for both humans and pets.
The pencil cactus is incredibly low maintenance and can handle a lot of neglect. It also doesn’t usually have issues with pests or diseases. If you tend to travel a lot and don’t have time to regularly take care of a houseplant, this might be the plant for you.
Generally, watering this plant is only necessary a couple of times a month during the warmer parts of the year and even less during the cooler months. And fertilization is typically done annually. Other maintenance might involve pruning off dead stems as needed and repotting container plants as they outgrow their pots.
A pencil cactus can be readily propagated from cuttings. Always wear protective clothing during this process. It is best to propagate your pencil cactus during the late spring or early summer when it is actively growing. Here’s how:
Using pruning shears, take a cutting of a green branch around 6 inches long.
Dip it in fresh water to stop the flow of sap.
Then, allow the cutting to dry for about a week and form a callous over the cut end before potting it in a moist succulent or cactus potting mix.
Place it in a sunny area and lightly water. Let the soil dry out before watering again.
und 6 inches long.
DipUsing pruning shears, take a cutting of a green it in fresh water to stop the flow of sap.
Then, allow the cutting to dry for about a week and form a callous over the cut end before potting it in a moist succulent or cactus potting mix.
Place it in a sunny area and lightly water. Let the soil dry out before watering again.