Euphorbia tirucalli ‘Sticks on Fire’, commonly known as Edwina Scissorhands, is a captivating succulent. Its unique, pencil-like stems display a striking palette of vibrant colors, making it a popular ornamental plant. This distinctive appearance and relatively easy care contribute to its widespread appeal.
Understanding Edwina Scissorhands
Edwina Scissorhands (Euphorbia tirucalli ‘Sticks on Fire’) is a succulent shrub known for its slender, branching stems. These cylindrical stems, about pencil-diameter, are the plant’s primary feature, as its small leaves typically fall off quickly. Stems transition from yellow-green to brilliant red, orange, and pink, intensifying in cooler temperatures or bright sunlight. This vibrant, coral-like growth gives the plant its “Scissorhands” moniker. Native to Africa, this cultivar is a striking selection of the Euphorbia tirucalli species.
Essential Care for Edwina Scissorhands
For vibrant coloration, Edwina Scissorhands thrives in bright, direct sunlight, ideally receiving at least six hours daily. Indoors, a south or west-facing window provides sufficient light. Insufficient light can cause the plant to lose its vivid colors and become leggy.
As a drought-tolerant succulent, Edwina Scissorhands requires infrequent watering. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings, as overwatering commonly causes root rot. During the spring and summer growing season, watering every two to three weeks is generally sufficient, reducing to once a month or less in fall and winter dormancy.
Well-draining soil, such as a specialized cactus or succulent mix, prevents water accumulation and root rot. If planting in a container, ensure it has drainage holes. Edwina Scissorhands prefers warm temperatures, ideally 65°F to 75°F (18°C to 24°C), and is sensitive to frost, tolerating temperatures down to about 50°F (10°C) for brief periods. Minimal fertilization is needed; a diluted succulent fertilizer can be applied once a month during the growing season.
Important Handling and Safety
Edwina Scissorhands produces a milky white sap, known as latex. This sap can cause skin and eye irritation, including rashes, burning, and even temporary blindness if it contacts the eyes. Ingesting the sap can lead to nausea, vomiting, and gastrointestinal distress.
When handling this plant, especially during pruning or if stems are broken, wear protective gear. This includes gloves, long sleeves, and eye protection to prevent sap exposure. After any contact, thoroughly wash hands with soap and water. Position Edwina Scissorhands away from high-traffic areas and out of reach of pets and children to minimize accidental contact.
Propagation and Maintenance
Propagating Edwina Scissorhands is typically done using stem cuttings. Take a cutting approximately 4 to 6 inches long with clean, sharp shears. Allow the cut end to dry and form a callus for a few days before planting it in a well-draining succulent soil mix. Water sparingly until roots begin to form, which can take a few weeks.
Pruning controls the plant’s size, shape, or removes damaged sections. When pruning, remember the milky sap and take the same safety precautions as when handling the plant. Pruning is best done during drier periods to reduce sap flow. After pruning, dispose of cuttings carefully, ensuring sap does not contact skin or other plants.