Sticks on Fire Milkbush

Sticks on Fire Milkbush

5 Gallon
$49.00
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Sticks on Fire Milkbush
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Sticks on Fire Milkbush

Euphorbia tirucalli 'Sticks on Fire'

Fiery Coral & Orange Stems • Slow-Growing Color Shrub • Drought Defying

$49.00
Container sizeSize guide

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 Living Plants

Size, shape and branching naturally vary

Description

The 'Sticks on Fire' Milkbush is a dazzling color chameleon for sunny, dry gardens. Its slender, pencil-like stems blaze in vibrant shades of coral, orange, and gold, intensifying with sun and cool weather. This slow-growing Euphorbia creates a breathtaking, fiery thicket that adds unparalleled warm color and textural contrast to Bay Area rock gardens, succulent beds, or large containers, all while asking for little more than sunshine and neglect.

  • Offers year-round vibrant color, with stem hues shifting from golden-green in shade to intense coral-red and orange in full sun and during cooler months.

  • Forms a dense, upright, branching shrub composed of numerous smooth, cylindrical stems, creating a captivating architectural mass.

  • Grows slowly but steadily, forming a well-behaved clump that is easy to manage and perfect for adding permanent, fiery structure to the garden.

  • Is supremely drought-adapted, thriving on minimal water and perfect for xeriscaping; requires excellent drainage and "soak and dry" watering.

  • Caution: Contains the characteristic toxic, milky sap of Euphorbias; handle with care and avoid contact with skin or eyes.

Quick Facts

  • Features:Stems: Smooth, pencil-thick cylindrical stems in vibrant coral-red to golden-orange hues (primary photosynthetic organs),Foliage: Tiny ephemeral leaves (rarely visible),Fruit: Notable triangular seed pods that explosively dehisce,Habit: Sculptural upright succulent shrub
  • Mature Height: 4-8 ft
  • Mature Width: 3-5 ft
  • Growth Rate: Slow
  • Light Needs: Full sun (for most intense coloration)
  • Key Advantages:Striking architectural form,Extreme drought tolerance,Fire-resistant landscaping,Deer proof,Low maintenance
  • Special Considerations:Toxicity: Milky sap causes severe skin/eye irritation and is poisonous if ingested,Caution: Wear gloves and eye protection when handling
  • Landscape Uses:Modern desert gardens,Security plantings (deters intruders),Container specimen,Xeriscape focal point,Poolside plantings

Faqs

Q: What sun exposure brings out the best color?
A: Maximum, all-day sun produces the most intense reds and oranges. In partial sun, stems will be more golden-green or yellow-orange. For the "on fire" look, provide the sunniest spot possible.

Q: Is it safe to plant near walkways or patios?
A: Due to its toxic sap and somewhat brittle stems that can break easily, it's best planted slightly away from high-traffic areas where people or pets might brush against it.

Q: How do I propagate it?
A: Take stem cuttings in spring/summer. Let the cut end callous over for several days to a week to stop sap flow and prevent rot. Then plant in dry, well-draining mix. Do not water until roots begin to form (in a few weeks).

📍 Primary Delivery Area · San Francisco Bay Area

Local delivery across the Bay Area — and beyond.

San Francisco Bay Area is our primary local delivery market. Victory Nursery also serves additional California markets and selected extended delivery areas by arrangement.

Regular local delivery: San Francisco, Peninsula, South Bay, East Bay, Marin, Tracy / Mountain House and surrounding service areas.

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Gallon describes the container size, not a guaranteed plant height. Individual plants vary. Contact our nursery for current measurements.

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