Succulent – Pencil Cactus

Pencil Cactus 

Botanical name: euphorbia trirucalli 

Beginner friendly?: moderate 

Average size at maturity: can reach 7-30 ft in height with up to a  4-10 inch spread if grown in tropical or indoor environments

Hardy zone: zones 10-12 

Foliage color: green 

Flower color: green/yellow 

Bloom time: fall, winter, early spring 

Growth rate: can grow 1-2 ft per year if grown in tropical or indoor environments 

Pruning instructions: lightly prune as needed to maintain desired shape and size 

Propagation methods: propagate with cuttings during the spring and summer months 

Landscape use: succulent garden, container plant, porch accent, 

Special features: drought tolerant, heat tolerant, disease resistant 

Light needs: at least 6 hours of sun per day 

Watering instructions: allow the soil to mostly dry out between watering sessions 

Fertilizing instructions : use a cactus and succulent fertilizer once a year in the early spring 

Best time to plant: spring, summer

Best type of soil: sand, loam 

Companion plants: agave, aloe vera, echeveria 

Toxicity level: toxic for humans and pets if ingested 

Invasive species: no