The Plant Guide

Browse the Full Plant Guide

Pencil tree

Euphorbia tirucalli

yew-FOR-bee-ah tee-roo-KAL-ee-eye Audio

This unusual looking plant has many succulent, pencil-like branches. The leaves are small and short-lived, and the flowers are insignificant. Euphorbia tirucalli can grow to almost 30 feet in the wild, but it can be used as a smaller specimen or container plant in the garden. It is hardy only in Zone 11.

Noteworthy CharacteristicsThe milky sap is toxic and may cause severe skin irritation.

CareProvide full sun and well-drained, light soil.

PropagationDivide in early spring or take cuttings in spring or early summer.

ProblemsNematodes, spider mites, aphids, mealybugs.

  • Genus : Euphorbia
  • Zones : 11
  • Plant Height : 15 to 30 feet
  • Plant Width : 3 to 6 feet
  • Plant Type : Cacti and Succulents
  • Uses : Containers
  • Moisture : Dry to Medium
  • Bloom Time : Early Spring, Late Spring, Spring
  • Light : Full Sun
  • Flower Color : Green
  • Maintenance : Low
  • Characteristics : Showy Foliage
  • Plant Seasonal Interest : Spring Interest

Related Plants

Related Articles

More From the Plant Guide

Winter Interest

Partial Shade

Browse the Full Plant Guide