Thursday, March 12, 2015

Upright and Strong: the Pencil Cactus

Euphorbia tirucalli

The succulent family of plants often appear to me as something out of science fiction! This one is no exception. The pencil cactus, with its upright "arms" reaching for the sun, is a marvel to behold. It can be a wonderful conversation piece that you can appreciate in your home or office, if you have a sunny spot for it to grow in.

The pencil cactus is botanically known as Euphorbia tirucalli and is native to much of the African continent. It does not need much attention and is a great choice for a beginner or those who don't have much time to spend on their plants.   

I saw this interesting succulent today, at a lovely florist that can send indoor plants and floral arrangements, almost anywhere in the world, if you click on the link below: 

Care Instructions:
  • Some direct sun
  • For a  6" (15cm) diameter pot, water when soil is dry about 1" (2.5cm) below the soil surface with about a pint (1/2 liter) of water
  • For an 8"diameter pot, water when the soil is dry about 2" (5cm) below the soil surface with about a quart (almost 1 liter) of water   
  • For a 10" diameter pot, water when the soil is dry about 3" (cm) inches below the soil surface
  • Fertilize regularly for best growth
  • Soil moisture meters made to test the moisture level of indoor plant's soil are readily available at your hardware store, nursery or garden center
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**To see other plants on this blog click here:   The Indoor Garden blog
***For a variety of  video clips on houseplant care from my 90's TV series, click here:
The Indoor Garden TV show

©2015


   


                                        

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