Also known as African Milkbush · African Milkbush Finger Tree · Blind-Eye
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Fire Stick (Euphorbia tirucalli) is a striking succulent with vibrant, pencil-like stems that turn fiery orange-red in strong sun, creating a dramatic landscape element.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Prefers full sun to partial shade.
75% intensity
In full sun, the stems develop vibrant orange-red coloration.
Allow soil to dry out completely between waterings. Drought tolerant.
25% intensity
Water thoroughly when dry, reduce in winter.
Well-draining, sandy, or gritty soil
50% intensity
Prefers warm temperatures.
75% intensity
Thrives in temperatures between 20-30°C. Can tolerate brief periods of cooler temperatures but protect from frost.
Low feeding requirements.
25% intensity
Fertilize sparingly during the growing season with a balanced, diluted fertilizer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 5/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 5/5 intensity |
The milky white sap is irritating to skin and eyes, and toxic if ingested.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Allow soil to dry out completely between waterings. Overwatering is the most common cause of root rot. Water thoroughly when the soil is dry, typically every 2-4 weeks depending on conditions.
Reduce watering significantly during winter dormancy.
Prune to maintain shape or control size, ideally in spring. Use sharp, clean tools. Wear gloves as the sap is a skin irritant. Cut back stems to desired length. Remove any dead or damaged branches.
The plant will readily branch from cut points.
Easily propagated from stem cuttings. Take cuttings of 10-15 cm in spring or summer. Allow the cut end to callus over for a few days to prevent rot. Plant in well-draining potting mix.
Roots usually form within a few weeks.
Repot every 2-3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Choose a pot only slightly larger than the current one. Use a fast-draining cactus or succulent mix. Ensure the new pot has drainage holes. Repot in spring.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Fire Stick (Euphorbia tirucalli)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Euphorbiaceae |
| Genus | Euphorbia |
| Species | Euphorbia tirucalli |
Similar in genus Euphorbia
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
