A striking succulent of slender pencil-thin branching stems that blaze coral-orange to fiery red in cool sunny weather, carrying a highly caustic milky sap. A bold drought-proof feature to handle with care.
At a glance
- Plant type: Succulent
- Mature size: 4 m H × 2 m W
- Aspect: full sun
- Water: very drought tolerant once established
- Frost: tender
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Firesticks
Botanically, Euphorbia tirucalli is a moderate-growing succulent in the Euphorbiaceae family. It reaches around 4 m tall and 2 m wide at maturity, with evergreen foliage.
Where to grow Firesticks
Firesticks suits arid and semi-arid, warm-temperate, subtropical and Mediterranean climates and grows best in full sun. It is frost tender, so protect it from hard frosts or grow it in a sheltered spot or pot. It also is a genuinely water-wise choice and tolerates salt-laden coastal winds.
Soil & planting
Firesticks does best in sandy and free-draining soil. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in.
Watering & feeding
Firesticks is very drought tolerant once established, so once its roots are down it needs little supplementary water. A feed in spring with a balanced fertiliser keeps growth strong. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
Pruning & care
Tip-prune Firesticks in spring to maintain a dense, shapely habit. Overall it is low maintenance.
Using Firesticks in the garden
Firesticks earns its place for a feature or specimen planting and pots and courtyard containers. It is equally at home in the ground or a large pot on a balcony or courtyard.
Companion planting & design
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Firesticks with other plants that enjoy the same very drought tolerant and arid and semi-arid climate. Repeat it through a border to tie the planting together and give a sense of rhythm.
Good to know
Note that it is toxic to cats and dogs, so site it away from pets that chew.
Buying Firesticks
Plant Sale lists Firesticks as potted plants. Stock isn't live yet — register your interest using the panel above and we'll email you the moment it is available.