The pencilcactus(Euphorbia tirucalli) is an interesting shrub withsucculentfoliage thats native to semi-arid tropical climates.
It can grow quite large in the wildup 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.
The Spruce / Letícia Almeida
On the branches are oval leaves that grow up to an inch long.
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 Spruce / Letícia Almeida
And unlike many cacti, this plant does have a fairly fast growth rate.
Pencil Cactus Care
The pencil cactus is incredibly low maintenance and can handle a lot of neglect.
It also doesnt usually have issues with pests or diseases.
The Spruce / Letícia Almeida
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.
Indoors, grow it by your brightest window.
The Spruce / Letícia Almeida
It can also tolerate bright, indirect light.
Soil
This plant loves dry, sandy soil that isnt highly rich in nutrients.
Container plants do well with a succulent or cactus potting mix that doesnt retain moisture.
The Spruce / Letícia Almeida
check that to choose a container with good drainage.
Water
The watering care for this succulent is very easy.
It only needs water every two to three weeks in the spring and summer.
The Spruce / Letícia Almeida
Reduce watering to monthly in the fall and winter.
It’s preferable to let the soil dry out completely in between waterings to avoid overwatering.
This plant is highly tolerant to drought, and too much water can rot its roots.
Temperature and Humidity
The pencil cactus thrives in warm temperatures ranging from 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit.
Temperatures around the plant should not drop below 50 degrees Fahrenheit.
Indoors, be sure to protect your plant from cool drafts, including those from an air conditioner.
The plant also thrives in low humidity.
But a higher humidity level shouldnt bother it as long as the soil doesnt retain moisture.
Fertilizer
This plant isnt a heavy feeder.
Pruning
Pruning a pencil cactus should be done in the early spring and is fairly easy.
Use a pair of pruning shears and first remove any dead or damaged branches from the cactus.
Propagating the Pencil Cactus
A pencil cactus can be readily propagated from cuttings.
Always wear protective clothing during this process.
Also, confirm there are ample drainage holes in the pot.
The plant can handle being a bit cramped in its pot.
But once the roots have filled the container, plan to move your plant to one pot size up.
double-check the soil is dry before you beginrepotting.
Gently remove the plant from the pot, and knock off excess soil.
Trim off any roots that look shriveled and dead or black and rotten.
Then, put the pencil cactus in its new pot, and fill around it with fresh potting mix.
Wait about a week before watering the plant.
Spider mites tend to be the biggest issue, along with aphids and nematodes.
These can be handled withneem oil.
Euphorbia tirucalli.North Carolina Extension.
