PENCIL CACTUS

Scientific Name: Euphorbia tirucalli

Common Names: Pencil Cactus

Description: This succulent shrub is native to semi-arid tropical parts of Africa but has been naturalized in other regions.

Size: Indoors, it typically grows 2-4 feet (0.6-1.2 meters) tall, but in its natural habitat, it can reach 20-30 feet (6-9 meters) or more.

Stems: The defining feature is the numerous, slender, cylindrical stems resembling pencils. These stems are green with a reddish-golden tinge when exposed to bright light, turning yellow in late spring and red in winter.

Leaves: It has small, short-lived leaves that quickly fall off. The photosynthesis mainly occurs in the stems.

Uses : Popular due to:

• Unique pencil-like stems and interesting form.
• Relatively easy care requirements (prefer bright light, well-draining soil, and infrequent watering).