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Pencil Cactus

Euphorbia tirucalli, Euphorbiaceae

Zones
10–11
Layer
Shrub
Lifespan
Perennial
Growth
Fast

Guild Roles

TrellisWindbreak

Growing Conditions

Sun

Full Sun (optimal)

Water

Low

Soil pH

6 – 7.5

Tolerances

Drought
Frost
Heat
Pest Resistance
Disease Resist.

Companion Plants

Jade PlantCrassula ovata
Nurse Plant
San Pedro CactusEchinopsis pachanoi
Wind ProtectionNurse Plant

Antagonistic Plants

Thai BasilOcimum basilicum var. thyrsiflora

Euphorbia species produce latex compounds that can inhibit growth of tender herbs like basil

Chocolate MintMentha x piperita f. citrata

Pencil cactus latex contains compounds toxic to mint family plants including chocolate mint

Holy BasilOcimum tenuiflorum

Pencil Cactus latex may inhibit Holy Basil in tropical companion plantings

Uses

Functions

Living FenceBiomass

Common Questions

What zones does Pencil Cactus grow in?

Pencil Cactus grows in USDA hardiness zones 10 through 11.

What are good companion plants for Pencil Cactus?

Good companions for Pencil Cactus include Jade Plant, San Pedro Cactus.

Design guilds with Pencil Cactus and see companion relationships visually.

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