Living on Earth getting you down? Though we get closer to colonizing Mars with each passing day, that day can’t come soon enough. Until then, you can transcend your earthly abode to otherworldly heights by creating a desertcore landscape with plants and decor. Our new favorite succulent for creating your very own Martian oasis in 2025 is the Euphorbia Tirucalli, or better known as the fire stick plant or pencil cactus.
Let’s dive into what makes this plant a standout, how to care for it, and a few tips to keep it thriving while ensuring you and your pets stay safe.
Appearance: A Flaming Work of Art
What sets the firestick pencil cactus apart is its stunning color palette. Its branches start out green and transition to fiery hues of yellow, orange, and red, especially during cooler months or when it gets plenty of direct sunlight. This color-shifting magic gives it its “fire stick” moniker. And those skinny, cylindrical branches? They give off major alien-plant vibes, adding architectural interest to any space.
Pro tip: If your fire sticks aren’t showing off their vibrant colors, it might be due to a lack of sunlight. More on that below.
Origins: Straight From the Tropics
The firestick pencil cactus hails from the sunny regions of Africa and India, thriving in the arid and semi-arid climates of its native lands. Euphorbia tirucalli is part of the Euphorbiaceae family, a sprawling clan that includes everything from poinsettias to spurge. Its natural habitat includes rocky terrains and dry savannas, making it well-suited to handle drought and heat.
In the wild, this plant can grow up to 30 feet tall, becoming a full-on tree with its slender, stick-like branches. But don’t worry—your indoor version will stay much more manageable, especially with the right care and pruning.
Care Guide: The Low-Maintenance Superstar
1. Light Preferences
They thrive in full sun and will not burn easily or succumb to crispy tips like aloes. Ideal conditions include at least 6-8 hours of sunlight daily to stay happy and colorful. If you’re growing it indoors, place it near a south-facing window or use a grow light to supplement. Outdoor plants will adore full sun, but be sure to acclimate them gradually if you’re moving them outside to avoid shock.
2. Watering Needs
If you're the type to forget watering schedules, this plant is your soulmate. (Also, check out the Cowbell Self-Watering System for your automatic watering needs.) Firesticks are drought-tolerant and prefer to dry out completely between waterings. Overwatering is their kryptonite—too much moisture can lead to root rot faster than you can say “Elon Musk.”
Water sparingly during the growing season (spring and summer). Scale back even more during winter, when the plant goes dormant in most non-tropical hardiness zones.
Keep an eye out for shriveled branches, which are a sign your fire sticks are thirsty and need a deep drink. Otherwise, less is definitely more.
3. Temperature and Humidity
True to their desert roots, firestick plants love warm, dry conditions. They’ll thrive in temperatures between 60°F and 85°F, but they’re not fans of frost. If you live in a colder climate, bring them indoors once temperatures dip below 50°F. Indoors, they’ll happily coexist with your heating system as long as they get enough light.
4. Soil and Potting
A well-draining cactus or succulent mix is essential. For bonus points, add some sand or perlite to improve drainage. Use a pot with drainage holes to prevent water from pooling at the roots.
5. Pruning and Maintenance
Firestick pencil cacti grow fast in the right conditions, and you might need to prune them to maintain their shape or size. Use gloves when handling the plant because of its toxic sap. Cut just above a node for clean results, and let the cut end callous over before watering.
Safety First: Toxicity Alert
The firestick pencil cactus produces a milky white sap that is toxic. This sap can irritate skin, cause burns, and is dangerous if ingested by humans or animals. Pet parents, take note: Keep this plant out of reach of curious paws and mouths. If you accidentally come into contact with the sap:
Rinse the area thoroughly with water and mild soap.
Avoid touching your face, especially your eyes.
If irritation persists, seek medical attention.
Unique Facts About Fire Sticks
They Aren’t True Cacti
Despite the nickname, fire sticks are technically a succulent, not a cactus. The distinction lies in their botanical family—cacti belong to the Cactaceae family, while fire sticks are Euphorbias.
Winter Color Boost
Want your fire sticks to glow even brighter? Cooler temperatures and less frequent watering in the winter months can intensify their red and orange hues, making them even more striking.
They’re Propagation Pros
If you want more firesticks (or to gift one to your bestie), propagation is a breeze. Cut a branch, let the cut end dry out for a few days, and plant it in well-draining soil. Just be cautious with the sap during the process.
Air Purifying Benefits
Like many succulents, the firestick pencil cactus can help purify the air in your home. It’s a small but mighty contribution to making your space feel fresh and breathable.
Styling Tips: Fire Sticks in Your Space
Fire sticks are a statement piece all on their own, but they pair beautifully with other desert-dwelling plants like agaves, aloes, and echeverias. Use terra-cotta pots for a classic look or sleek, modern planters for a minimalist touch. Outdoors, they’re perfect for xeriscaping, adding drama to rock gardens, or framing pathways.
