The Firestick cactus grows in warm but semi-arid climates. It can be a spectacular addition to a yard in California. However, it takes careful gardening - not so much to take care of the plant, but because of its sap.
Firestick Cactus Facts
The Firestick cactus is known by many names: Pencil Tree, Naked Lady, Milk Bush and Indian Tree Spurge. The scientific name is Euphorbia tirucalli.
It is classified as a succulent because its flesh is juicy, but not because it makes a satisfying meal. The sap is actually a corrosive irritant.
The Firestick cactus can withstand a slight frost or some periods of cool, rainy weather. It prefers to receive a lot of sunshine, and requires only a little moisture after the soil has dried.
Depending on the conditions, it will achieve a height of at least eight inches, often eighty inches, and sometimes more. Most gardeners prize its striking colors: a green stem with blooms on the tips that can range from a pale yellow to a fiery red. It blooms in late spring.
A Garden of Cares
A gardener might start a Firestick from a seed or a cutting; it is possible to transplant one instead. It is best to use a soil mix designed to support cactus; the ground may be slightly acidic, neutral or mildly alkaline. After planting, the ground should be watered to feel damp but not soaking wet.
The ideal location for a Firestick is a sunny corner where it will be sheltered during cold weather. For the safety and wellbeing of people, it should not be planted where anyone will accidentally brush against it.
The plant should only be watered if the ground has become very dry. Firestick retains moisture in its thick leaves. In the late spring, it can be given some cactus fertilizer. By autumn, it will not need water or fertilizer. It may require some protection from frost.
Firestick has somewhat fragile stems, so it may be hard to tell whether it was damaged by wind, cold, or just being top-heavy. Dead or damaged branches should be pruned.
The major "care" involved is that which the gardener takes for his or her own protection. The sap may simply irritate skin upon contact, although some people do not report any effects. Others seem to have developed an allergic sensitivity. The most alarming symptoms result when the sap gets into a person's eyes.
In July of 2010, a man was reported to require emergency medical treatment when he accidentally rubbed sap from a Firestick he was pruning onto his forehead. Early reports indicated he would not lose his vision. Work gloves, a long sleeved shirt, and perhaps a bandana or hat would be good gardening apparel.
The stems can easily be bruised. Simply handling a Firestick may release the sap onto skin or clothing. It is best to plant it where people will not brush against it.
The Firestick cactus can be a remarkably lovely ornament in the right location. Careful gardening can be rewarded with a spectacular cactus.
References:
Denise Reynolds, RD, e-maxhealth.com, published July 22, 2010, referenced July 22, 2010.Dave's Garden.com, referenced July 22, 2010.
Garden Guides.com, referenced July 22, 2010.
Mike DeHaan - Copyright (c) Mike DeHaan, B. Math., of DeHaan Services. Well written and well researched freelance articles; ghost writing for clients.
