How to Take Starts Off a Firestick Cactus

The plant commonly known as a firestick cactus is not actually a cactus at all, but a succulent Euphorbia related to poinsettia. Stems of the plant grow upright with only a few tiny leaves. New growth is a dramatic red-orange color looking something like sticks on fire. The plant's succulent nature allows it to survive very well in dry conditions as a houseplant or in the landscape. These are fascinating plants and it is possible to quickly start more of them from cuttings.

Cutting The Stem For Planting A Firestick Cactus

Firestick cactus, or Euphorbia tirucalli 'Rosea,' is also known as sticks of fire, sticks on fire or pencil tree. Often referred to as a cactus, the plant is actually a succulent that presents new growth with flare. Choose a healthy young red, pink or very light green stem with unblemished reddish or pinkish pencil-like appendages. Spray the wound on the parent plant with the garden hose until it stops bleeding sap. This will help prevent the stem from rotting. The succulent should root in four to eight weeks when new growth will begin to emerge. Water the plant thoroughly when you see new growth. Move it to a sunny window in a warm, well-ventilated area to acclimate it to direct sun for a week or two. Plant the firestick outdoors after soil temperature rises above 65 degrees. Water no more than once every other week through the winter. Don’t allow firestick cactus to have wet feet.