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firestick pencil cactus

firestick pencil cactus Buy 'Pencil Cactus - Euphorbia tirucalli Firesticks' Care and Growing Guide

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firestick pencil cactus Buy 'Pencil Cactus - Euphorbia tirucalli Firesticks' Care and Growing GuideIntroducing the Pencil Cactus, botanically known as Euphorbia tirucalli Fire Sticks (also called Sticks on Fire), a striking succulent prized for its sea coral like appearance and vibrant, loosely branching pencil thin stems that develop brilliant shades of green, orange, and red. Native to Southern Africa, this unique succulent belongs to the Euphorbiaceae (spurge) family, not the cactus family (Cactaceae), though it is commonly referred to as Pencil

Introducing the Pencil Cactus, botanically known as Euphorbia tirucalli ‘Fire Sticks’ (also called Sticks on Fire), a striking succulent prized for its sea coral-like appearance and vibrant, loosely branching pencil-thin stems that develop brilliant shades of green, orange, and red.

Native to Southern Africa, this unique succulent belongs to the Euphorbiaceae (spurge) family, not the cactus family (Cactaceae), though it is commonly referred to as “Pencil Cactus” because of its cactus-like form and upright growth habit. It is also known by several other common names, including fire sticks plant, sticks on fire succulent, fire plant, red pencil tree, milk bush, and Euphorbia tirucalli ‘Rosea’.


When exposed to direct sunlight, the tips turn red, which is why they are also called firesticks.

This fast growing evergreen succulent can grow up to 30 feet tall and 10 feet wide, forming a thicket of brilliantly colored vertical stems with loose branches.

The unusual stems of this firestick plant, which are as thin as pencils, have a reddish-golden hue that becomes yellow in the summer and red again in the winter.

The pencil cactus flowers boast vibrant yellow, pink, or orange blooms in the summer and spring, making them a true showstopper in any garden.

The pencil cactus is extremely drought tolerant and hard to kill, and as a result, is a great, low-maintenance, easy-care plant for your home or garden.

You can grow your pencil cactus indoors year-round as a houseplant. If planting outdoors, it's best to do so in the spring when temperatures are warm and stable. This cactus grows faster than many other cacti, making it a striking addition to your garden or home.

If you cut your pencil cactus, be careful—the thick, white sap is toxic and can cause skin irritation, burns, or severe eye irritation if it gets into your eyes. While highly irritating, some cultures have historically used it in traditional medicine for treating growths like warts and tumors, though it is not safe for home remedies. Always wear gloves when handling the plant and wash your hands thoroughly if you come into contact with the sap.

When and How to Water Your Pencil Cactus 

This pencil cactus firestick plant can withstand droughts and doesn't need to be watered frequently to survive. Watering these perennial succulents should be done every 3–4 weeks or when the soil feels dry. Let the soil completely dry out between waterings, and if in doubt, give your fire plant a little more time before watering again.  Less water is needed for humid locations and indoor spaces. Pay attention to how the pencil cactus looks and adjust the watering accordingly.

Remember that succulents in the desert can go for weeks or even months without water, so water them sparingly during their rest phase and moderately during their active growing season.

Pro Tip

Most people like to see the red tips that give this Euphorbia tirucalli its firestick name. Note that it is stress that causes the tips to go red. So, the art is to stress the firestick plant a bit, but not too much. So, give it a lot of light and water it less than other succulents, so it is thirsty but not dying of thirst.

Overwatering can also cause the Euphorbia tirucalli 'Firesticks' tips to turn red, but it can also lead to root rot and other problems. So, if your pencil cactus is not turning red in full sun, it's possible that it's not experiencing enough stress to produce the anthocyanin pigments or that it's receiving too much water.

Light Requirements - Where to Place Your Pencil Cactus 

Like most succulents, indoors, the Euphorbia tirucalli firesticks need bright, indirect sunlight to thrive, so choose the brightest area in the house.

Potted indoor pencil cacti require four hours of direct sunlight, which can be achieved by locating them on a sunny south or west-facing windowsill. 

If you are growing these firestick succulents outdoors, make sure that they receive at least six hours of direct sunlight per day.

Partial shade may be tolerated as long as your pencil cactus gets the majority of the sunlight that it needs when it's planted outside. This succulent plant won't thrive if left in the shade for a long time. Its colors become more vibrant the more sunlight it receives.

In order to avoid sunburn, it is preferable to acclimatize your pencil cactus first before moving it outdoors or increasing the amount of sunlight it receives.

Optimal Soil & Fertilizer Needs 

The firestick Euphorbia is a succulent plant that likes very airy, porous, nutrient-rich soil with a pH of 5.5–6.5. Succulents require fast-draining soil that dries completely between waterings. Ideally, you want to use our specialized potting mixGo to soil cactus mix blend 1 gal 4 qt cacti succulent dirt compost growing media that contains 5 natural substrates and organic mycorrhizae to promote the development of a strong root system that helps your Euphorbia firesticks Pencil Cactus to thrive. 

When it comes to fertilizing your pencil cactus plant, it only needs a small amount of fertilizer applied once a year in spring. Cacti prefer a fertilizer with lower doses of NPK, with a maximum ratio of 5-10-5 that is higher in phosphorus than nitrogen.

Hardiness Zones & More 

When growing indoors as a houseplant, the Euphorbia firestick can tolerate temperatures between 65 °F and 75 °F. Your Euphorbia firestick plant performs well in temperatures above 30 °F. However, it can withstand temperatures below that, but only for short periods of time.

In the United States, the Euphorbia tirucalli is mostly an indoor plant, but if you live in southern Florida or Hawaii then you can cultivate it outdoors in USDA zones 10 -11.

Growing these pencil cacti in containers is the best option if you live in an area with harsh winters.

By doing this, you can bring your Pencil Cactus indoors during the winter or any time there's a chance of frost or snow. Normal house humidity is fine for this Euphorbia, but it prefers dry conditions. 

Wildlife - Euphorbia tirucalli Attracts the Following Friendly Pollinators

The Euphorbia tirucalli flowers attract a variety of pollinators, such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, with their bright colors and sweet nectar. These pollinators play a crucial role in the ecosystem by helping to fertilize plants and promote biodiversity.

Butterflies
Bees
Hummingbirds
Lady Bugs
Multi Pollinators
Other Birds

According to ASPCA, the Euphorbia tirucalli 'Firesticks' is mildly toxic to humans and pets. It can irritate the skin, eyes, and gastrointestinal tract. However, it is safe to touch as long as precautions are taken to avoid contact with the sap. Wear gloves when handling this plant to prevent any potential skin irritation.

How to Propagate Your Pencil Cactus

When it comes to pencil cactus propagation, one common method is through stem cuttings. Simply take a cutting from a healthy pencil cactus, let it dry for a few days, and then place it in well-draining soil. Another method is through division, where you carefully separate the offsets or side shoots from the main plant and plant them individually.

Key Takeaways

  1. The stems of firesticks are as thin as pencils (hence the name) and turn a fire-red in the winter.
  2. Euphorbia Firesticks is a stunning variety that changes color with the seasons, turning bright red or orange tips in cooler temperatures or full sun.
  3. This succulent has a rapid growth rate, reaching up to 30 feet tall when grown outdoors, with a branching, upright form.
  4. During the spring and summer, the yellow flowers bloom in clusters on the end of the branch, usually for just a few days.

The Bottom Line

Overall, the pencil cactus (Euphorbia Firesticks) is a unique and striking succulent plant that adds a touch of elegance to any space. With its slender, pencil-like stems and vibrant green color, this sticks-on-fire cactus can truly be a showstopper. However, it's important to remember that the pencil cactus is not a true cactus but rather a succulent. It requires minimal care, preferring bright light and well-draining soil. By providing proper pencil cactus care, you'll have a beautiful and unique Euphorbia firestick plant that will thrive for years to come. 

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Laney
Chelsea, US
★★★★★ 5
I’m absolutely OBSESSED!!!!!!
Format: Paperback
My love for this book is everything. Just thinking back to the little family—Ford, Cora, and Rosie—was absolutely amazing to read about. The way I completely fell in love with the lovesick billionaire, the grieving daughter, and a woman trying to find herself again was the best part of the book. I felt like each word drew me closer to the main characters. Ford is a billionaire who buys a run-down house in his old vacation town when, surprise, a quiet, guarded, incredibly smart twelve-year-old girl shows up on his doorstep claiming to be his daughter through a past sperm donation. Cora has lost her father, and her mother is struggling deeply, so Ford unexpectedly takes Cora under his wing. She’s sharp, sarcastic, emotionally reserved, and clearly carrying more weight than a kid her age should have to bear. Not long after, Rosie—Ford’s best friend’s little sister and his long-lost love—returns to town after being mistreated by her boss. Her arrival catches Ford completely off guard, and all the feelings he thought he’d buried come crashing back. Throughout the book, Rosie forms a deep, natural bond with Cora, and together they slowly build something that feels like home. Ford doesn’t just fall in love with Rosie—he falls in love with the family they create. Favorite Parts ★ Rosie’s bond with Cora was literally my breaking point. They are so incredibly sweet and felt completely real.
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Reviewed in the United States on February 3, 2026
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ghostrider369
Whiting, US
★★★★★ 5
If you want to write that best seller correctly, this is the book for you!
Format: Paperback
Plot & Structure is a thorough handbook for writers looking to improve their storytelling. Bell, as many already know is a successful novelist and writing coach. He simplifies complex ideas like plot development and narrative structure into useful advice, practical tactics, and interesting activities that we can all understand. Bell's strategy revolves around the LOCK methodology, which stands for Lead, Objective, Confrontation, and Knockout. Not a new technique at all, this framework is intended to assist authors in crafting captivating story lines that hold readers' attention from start to finish. Bell clearly emphasizes the significance of developing a strong lead character who propels the story forward, a definite aim that guides the plot, a confrontation that adds tension and drama, and a knockout finish that leaves readers happy but wanting more. Clarity and order are two of the book's strongest points. Bell delivers his thoughts in a logical order, beginning with the basics of plot structure and progressing to more sophisticated themes such as subplots, pacing, and thematic depth. Each chapter is illustrated with examples from popular literature and cinema, making theoretical topics more concrete and understandable. This method not only enhances comprehension but also encourages readers to study and appreciate the workmanship behind their favorite stories. But Bell does this in a fun, and still factually correct manner. Bell's writing style is both informative and motivating. He communicates directly to the reader, anticipating their worries and queries and providing encouragement with his advice. His encouraging tone is especially helpful for aspiring authors who may be intimidated by the hurdles of narrative development, I know I was one of those. Bell tells them that, while creating a compelling plot is difficult, it is possible with perseverance, effort, and a willingness to learn from failures. The exercises at the end of each chapter are another standout feature of the book. These are intentionally created to put the concepts covered into practice, encouraging authors to explore various story scenarios, character motives, and narrative structures. By constantly promoting active participation, Bell guarantees that readers not only absorb the material but also apply it. This hands-on approach encourages creativity and experimentation, which are crucial skills for any writer trying to improve their art. He makes the whole process fun to do, which helps one feel involved more than some dreary instructional how-to book that we have all read and forgotten. Furthermore, Bell discusses frequent plotting difficulties and provides solutions to solve them. He addresses difficulties like predictable storylines, uninteresting characters, and drooping middles, offering practical advice on how to increase suspense, deepen character development, and sustain momentum throughout the novel. This problem-solving part of the book is crucial since it provides writers with skills for critically evaluating and improving their work. It dives into the psychological and emotional sides of narrative, recognizing that a successful plot is more than just what occurs, but how it affects the characters and, as a result, the readers. Bell urges writers to explore their characters' emotional journeys, claiming that emotional resonance is critical to producing a memorable and meaningful story. Despite its numerous qualities, the book might have used more diverse examples, such as those from genres outside of Bell's area of expertise, contemporary literature, and indie presses. While the emphasis is mostly on traditional narrative frameworks, some consideration of experimental and non-linear storytelling could have provided a more comprehensive perspective on the art of plotting. Its thorough examination of plot creation, along with practical exercises and insightful suggestions, makes it an invaluable resource for anybody wishing to master the craft of storytelling. Whether you're a new writer struggling with your first plot or an experienced author looking to improve your skills, this book provides the assistance and inspiration you need to create captivating narratives that keep readers engaged from beginning to end. Plus, you will have fun along the way too!
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Reviewed in the United States on February 6, 2024
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Birdfeeder
Lake Worth, US
★★★★★ 5
One of the best books about writing!
Format: Paperback
Each chapter offered valuable information. I can't praise it enough. It's simply one of the best books that I have read about writing. I have learned plenty, and I will apply it to my new novel that I'm working on right now! Buy it! Read it! It works wonders! It's invaluable to my collection. If you're building your collection, make sure this book finds a place in your home. I have outlined so much. I have taken so many notes. I memorized elements of the structure. The author didn't take any break. He didn't stop surprising me toward the end. Great work! OVERVIEW The author talks about the LOCK system for your novel. L --You need to have a gripping Lead with whom readers can identify with. You need sympathy, likability, and inner conflict. You need to build an arc of your character breaking into his layers, so the lead changes by the end of the novel. You need to show it through action and show the moment of change. O-- Objective, a goal your lead wants to achieve. You need to create a strong opposition, and put that opposition close to the lead. It might be a physical location, moral duty, professional obligation, life or death situation, obsession, etc. C--Confrontation or simply said conflict that grows; stakes are raised higher leading to the climax of the story. K--Knockout--final fight against opposition You need three ACT structure: Beginning (Act 1) , Middle(Act 2), Ending (Act 3) Beginnings- You need to reveal the lead; hook the reader; create sympathy through those things that I have mentioned earlier. You need to create disturbance in his life that will move the Lead to Act 2 which is the middle, no return. Middles- Raise the stakes; scenes are more tense; create more conflict and have a death hanging over your Lead (emotional death, physical, or professional, etc.) The customer is nearing the black moment. The Lead enters another door of no return. Endings-Battle--tie those lose endings (some might contain sacrifice) 1. A final choice or 2. A final battle Add a twist if possible. If you follow the above and create a back cover blurb, you can go ahead and write your novel knowing it will not fail. Create an arc of the character that concentrates on the internal part of the character. I like to create also two charts. One is for the Lead showing how the character is changing internally. Another one, characters who play the parts in your novel divided into following categories: Character, Description, Objective, Role, Secret, and Emotion Evoked. You can add as much as you want in your never ending list. Scenes- HIP- Hook, Keep it Intense, Prompt to another scene Stretch tension! You need show instead of tell. ARM- Action, Reaction, and More Action Soap Opera-- don't resolve anything until the end, and you might want to end the scene with a secret revealed or a cliff hanging moment. Complex Plots--Play with symbols or motifs; create subplots and integrate them into the main plot, or use parallel plots used so much in romance novels. Or divide into sections; each section to contain the LOCK system and three act structure. Some other things that I found valuable: Flashbacks -- keep them short; create scenes out of them; use one HAD. If your middle doesn't play well, do something unexpected like throwing a guy with a gun. Unanticipate-- avoid cliches, create unpredictiable scenes, endings If you present something in the story, make sure you use it later in your novel. If you mention the riffle on the wall, make sure it will play out in the future scene. You need to work backwards. You need to plant things, so the future scenes will make sense. The author talked about SHUTDOWN. I have experienced it myself just after the conference. It happens when the writer is overwhelmed and can't produce. It's a phase that passes. I did have it for two weeks. I was just simply exhausted and overwhelmed. I took a break, and the passion came back.
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Reviewed in the United States on November 1, 2011
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C.J.
Birmingham, US
★★★★★ 4
Pretty Good... Not amazing.... But pretty good.
Format: Paperback
Before taking a stab at my first real story I have decided to read two books on the art of writing fiction; "Techniques of the Selling Writer" by Dwight Swain, and the book I am reviewing now, "Plot and Structure" by James Bell. While Swain's book was more of an all inclusive manual on writing interesting fiction, Bell's book is focused strictly on, as the name suggests, plot and structure. What this book is not... This is not a 'how to write a novel' book; if you are going to just read one book on writing a fiction novel then "Techniques of the Selling Writer" may be the more appropriate choice. If you are looking for a book that deals with anything outside of plot and structure, this book will be of no help there either. This book is designed to be supplemental to an already moderately educated reader. If you read Swain's book first, then you will instantly recognize the principles of this book. What this book is... This is a great book on, you guessed it, Plot and Structure. It's actually a fairly concentrated look into the subject. The chapters... Ch 1: What's a plot, anyway? Ch 2: Structure: What holds your plot together. Ch 3: How to explode with plot ideas. Ch 4: Beginning strong. Ch 5: Middles. Ch 6: Endings. Ch 7: Scenes. Ch 8: Complex Plots. Ch 9: The character arc in plot. Ch 10: Plotting Systems. Ch 11: Revising your plot. Ch 12: Plot Patterns. Ch 13: Common plot problems and cures. Ch 14: Tips and Tools for plot and structure. I found the specificity of this book very helpful with each principle being illustrated by a paragraph or so of a known author's work. Bell handpicks excerpts from authors varying from Dean Koontz to Herman Melville, brilliantly pulling text from these masters and showing us how they went about the relevant technique. This easy to read nature and well outlined subject matter means I will be using several of its chapters as a personal reference guide in the future. I'm certain it will keep me from making many of the mistakes beginning writers make and possibly save me weeks in rewrites. I will say this though... "Techniques of the Selling Writer" is a better book and covers plot quite well too; so if you are only going to read one book on writing, that is a damn good place to start. If you want to supplement that reading further, "Plot and Structure" comes highly recommended. [...]
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Reviewed in the United States on May 26, 2010
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fernando pedernera
Phoenix, US
★★★★★ 5
Have no fear!, or The writer's Victorinox.
Format: Kindle
You can't praise this book enough. There are a ton of how-to books out there, but this one really made a difference for me. Think of writing as a journey through the woods: You set up, you get in the muddle, and you come out (hopefully) on the other side. When doing this, we try to use as many tools and resources as we can to make it to the other side, but most of the time you fail (or tools fail on you) and you end up starving or being eaten by some wild animal in the muddle of the story. What James Scott Bell wants you to have in clear is that the most useful tool you can have out there is YOU. And all of his tips, advice and excercises are aimed to one thing and one thing only: how to unleash and harness the power of your story (and survive). It provides clear, straight-forward tools and tips, adressing many aspects of the writing process you won't find in many of them. It is a must-read for anyone interested in the study of plots and storytelling. Relevant examples that take in consideration a wide array of writer profiles, and Bell does not abuse with film examples (and most of the movies it references are also books i.e.: the maltesse falcon, the godfather, etc.). It contains useful excercises at the end of each chapter to help you put the tehcniques in practice and bring the best out of your learning experience. It really helped me overcome several issues I had with my novel-writing and opened my mind to a new scope on plot and str.. This is a wonderful book, written in the same gripping style that the author suggests to use, and with great success. I think this is a wonderful book because it does not give infalible advice. To me that is very important. Let me ilustrate how I felt by giving you the following example: (after developing content) -Regular book: so just do This (and fail, miserably). -Bell's book: Many writers had this problem before and by doing This you might also find a solution for it. In case That doesn't work, you could maybe try This, or come back at it again later on with a fresh view and give it another try.
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Reviewed in the United States on August 18, 2017

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