The Red Pencil Tree, known scientifically as Euphorbia tirucalli ‘Sticks on Fire’, is a unique succulent celebrated for its vibrant, pencil-like stems that display a fiery array of colors. Its distinctive appearance and impressive drought tolerance make it a popular choice for various garden designs and indoor spaces.
Understanding the Red Pencil Tree
The Red Pencil Tree, Euphorbia tirucalli ‘Sticks on Fire’, is a cultivar recognized by its slender, branching stems that exhibit a reddish-golden hue, typically reaching 6 to 8 feet tall, though it can grow taller in ideal conditions. The plant has inconspicuous, tiny leaves that are ephemeral, appearing on new growth before quickly dropping off. Its stems shift from green to vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow. This intense coloration is most pronounced with ample direct sunlight or cooler temperatures, particularly in winter. The Red Pencil Tree originates from tropical and subtropical regions in Africa, including Madagascar, and extends through the Arabian Peninsula and India.
Caring for Your Red Pencil Tree
The Red Pencil Tree thrives in bright, direct sunlight, which is essential for developing its most intense red and orange coloration. It requires at least six hours of direct sunlight daily, although it can tolerate some partial shade. Indoors, place it near a south or west-facing window. Insufficient light can cause the plant to lose its vivid colors and become leggy.
Proper watering involves the “soak and dry” method. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings to prevent root rot, a common issue with overwatering. During the active growing season in spring and summer, water approximately once every two to three weeks, reducing the frequency to about once a month or less in the dormant fall and winter periods. Ensure that any pot used has drainage holes to prevent water accumulation at the roots.
For optimal growth, the Red Pencil Tree requires well-draining soil, such as a sandy mix or a specialized succulent/cactus potting mix. A mixture combining regular potting soil with sand, perlite, or pumice can also provide the necessary drainage. Good drainage is crucial to prevent waterlogging and root rot. The plant prefers warm temperatures, ideally ranging from 65°F to 75°F (18°C to 24°C), and is hardy in USDA zones 10-12. It is sensitive to frost and should be protected from temperatures below 30°F (-1°C).
Fertilization requirements for the Red Pencil Tree are minimal. A balanced, diluted succulent fertilizer can be applied sparingly during the growing season, typically once every four weeks at half strength. Over-fertilizing should be avoided, as this plant generally prefers nutrient-poor conditions. Pruning maintains the plant’s shape or removes damaged sections. Propagation is possible from stem cuttings by allowing cut ends to dry and callus before planting in well-draining soil.
Addressing Important Considerations
The Red Pencil Tree produces a milky white sap, known as latex, when its stems are cut or damaged. This sap is irritating to the skin and eyes and is toxic if ingested. When handling the plant, especially during pruning or propagation, wear protective gloves and eye protection. If contact occurs, thoroughly wash affected skin with soap and water; seek immediate medical attention if sap gets into eyes.
The Red Pencil Tree is generally pest-resistant but can occasionally be affected by mealybugs, aphids, spider mites, or nematodes. These issues can often be managed with appropriate horticultural treatments. Due to the irritating sap, consider the plant’s placement carefully, away from high-traffic areas or where children and pets might come into contact with it.