Firestick factories are set up in most parts of the country. (Euphorbia tirucalli) It is grown as a succulent houseplant, with green stems that turn yellow in summer and fiery shades of orange, pink, and red in winter. The more sunlight a plant receives, the brighter its color will be. In dry regions that don't freeze in winter, firesticks can be grown outdoors as dense hedges or small trees. This guide explains how to grow flame stick plants in your indoor or outdoor garden.
A milky sap oozes from the firestick stem. when damaged. It causes redness, inflammation, and blistering of the skin and can cause temporary blindness. Wear long sleeves, gloves, and safety glasses when handling fire sticks.Also toxic to dogs, cats and horses.
Firestick overview
| genus name | Euphorbia tirucalli |
| common name | fire stick |
| Additional common names | Firestick, rose, Indian tree spurge, red pencil cactus |
| types of plants | Ornamental plants, perennials, shrubs, and trees |
| light | Sun |
| height | 1 to 25 feet |
| width | 1 to 10 feet |
| color of flower | yellow |
| leaf color | blue/green |
| Seasonal characteristics | winter interest |
| special features | Suitable for containers and low maintenance |
| zone | 10, 11, 9 |
| propagation | cutting |
| problem solver | Deer resistant and drought resistant |
Where to plant fire sticks
Firesticks is a euphorbia native to Africa, also known as spurge. Grow outdoors in USDA hardiness zones 9 through 11 in frost-free areas or as a houseplant. Requires well-drained soil and full sun. Firestick plants also require warm temperatures and low humidity.
If growing outdoors in the ground, place your firestick away from high-traffic areas. Brushing can cause the delicate stems to break and ooze toxic sap.
Firesticks are not listed on any U.S. state or national invasive species lists, but they have become invasive in parts of Florida, California, and Hawaii.
When and how to plant a firestick
The best time to plant firesticks outdoors is spring, early summer, or early fall. Avoid planting in the hot summer months or in the winter when plants stop growing. Water once a week until new roots grow. Once the plant has rooted, water it only after the soil is completely dry. For larger plants, you may need to stake them until they are rooted in the ground. Once the plant has stabilized, remove the stake, usually within 2 to 3 months. Outdoors, this plant can grow up to 25 feet tall.
If you want to grow Firestick as a houseplant, fill it with a good-quality potting soil formulated for succulents in a well-drained container. For this sun-loving person, choose the sunniest spot in your home. The more sun there is, the brighter the color of the plant will be. If you plant it indoors, it won't grow very tall.
fire stick plant care tips
Firestick plants grow easily as long as they receive enough sunlight and are not grown in moist soil. Firesticks cannot withstand subzero temperatures, so they must be protected from light frosts.
light
Firestick plants grow best in full sun or very light shade. Plants grown as houseplants and moved outdoors during the warmer months will need to be slowly acclimatized to the additional light by increasing the amount of sunlight over a period of two to three weeks. To do this, move the pot to a place with direct sunlight and out of direct sunlight. Start by exposing your plants to morning sun only, increasing the amount of sun they get each day.
earth and water
Firestick plants grow in fast-draining soils that are low in organic matter. Soils high in organic matter retain water and cause plants to rot. Water only after the soil is completely dry. Reduce watering in winter, when plant growth slows or stops completely.
temperature and humidity
This plant requires high temperatures and low humidity. It cannot tolerate subzero temperatures, so it must be protected from frost. If growing in containers outdoors, move indoors when nighttime temperatures drop below 50°F.
fertilizer
Firestick plants grow well with less fertilizer. Use a half-strength cactus or houseplant fertilizer in the spring once the plant begins new growth. Do not fertilize in late summer or fall. For plants planted in the ground, fertilize lightly with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring.
pruning
Firesticks require little pruning. If the plant grows too long, use sharp pruning shears or a pruning saw to cut it back. It is essential to wear long sleeves, gloves, and safety glasses when coming into contact with this plant. If the milky sap comes into contact with the skin or eyes, it can cause burns and temporary blindness. If sap gets on your skin, wash it off immediately with warm water and soap.
Potting and repotting firestick plants
Repot your firestick plant when new growth begins in the spring. Firesticks do not need to be repotted every year, but the plants can become top-heavy over time. Use heavy pots to prevent them from tipping over, and stake or support your newly potted plants until they take root in the new soil.
pests and problems
Root rot is the main problem with flame stick plants. Be sure to grow in well-drained soil and allow it to dry completely between watering. Reduce watering even further in the winter when the plant stops growing. Another common problem is too little light. Plants grown outdoors should be placed in full sun. Plants grown as houseplants should be placed as close to a sunny window as possible to avoid root rot. Indoor plants that don't get enough light can appear yellow and weak. Use grow lights if necessary.
Mealybugs, aphids and spider mites can cause problems, but can be washed away with a strong stream of water.
How to propagate firestick plants
Firestick plants can be easily propagated by cuttings. Wear gloves, long sleeves, and safety glasses when cutting to avoid exposure to the irritant sap. Take 6- to 12-inch cuttings in late spring or summer. Allow the cut to callus for 2 to 7 days before washing off the sap with water and placing the cut in lightly moist potting soil. Do not wet the soil with water and let it dry between waterings.
Types of fire stick plants
“Rosea”
Euphorbia tirucalli 'Rosea' is often called 'Stix on Fire' or red pencil cactus. The stems remain red all year round. When grown as a houseplant, it can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide, and can also be planted outdoors as a perennial in zones 9 to 11 in areas that don't experience freezing weather.
Firestick companion plant
Companion plants that are great for growing in firesticks also like sunny, dry conditions.
yellow bell
yellow bell (Tecoma stance) is a drought-tolerant, sun-loving shrub that is covered in yellow flowers all summer long. The new introductions produce red and orange flowers that withstand even the hottest summer climates. Flowers, especially red flowers, are favorites of hummingbirds.
texas sage
Denny Schrock
Texas sage (Leucophilum frutescens) It has silver-gray leaves and deep purple flowers. You can mow it into balls or leave it to grow naturally. It complements the green, yellow, orange, and red stems of the firestick. Prefers full sun and well-drained soil.
Yucca
Yucca (Yucca filamentosa) makes a bold statement in the desert garden, like a stick of fire. The broad, stringy leaves contrast with the upright stems of the firestick. It prefers sunny gardens and can tolerate severe drought conditions. It grows very tall stems and produces many flowers.