By VALORIE SHATYNSKI

Answer: Euphorbia tirucalli, (also called Firesticks, Sticks on Fire, or Pencil Bush), is a visually striking and hardy drought-tolerant landscaping plant that is readily available in nurseries and is easily propagated.

Firesticks, and all Euphorbias, produce a toxic white sap (latex) if their leaves or stems are cut or broken. The sap from Firesticks is one of the most caustic as the sap in any form, including dried sap, is irritating and can be toxic to exposed skin or eyes. It can cause rashes, burning, and intense pain. Individuals with latex allergies, sensitive skin, or sensitivity to these saps are particularly at risk. Cacti are often confused with Euphorbia, but cacti do not produce latex. If exposure causes serious skin irritation, is ingested, or eyes are exposed, immediately call the Poison Control Center: (800) 222-1222 - or your doctor. See: https://ucanr.edu/sites/poisonous_safe_plants/ for more information.

There are over 2,000 plants classified in the Euphorbia family. These plants range from tiny to tree sized, often with interesting and striking forms which enhance our gardens and homes. They tend to bloom for long periods, are low maintenance, and fast growing. Euphorbia all share unique floral structures, lacking the sepals or petals we typically observe in flowering plants. A familiar example of the floral structure is the poinsettia, in which the colorful bracts which we often consider the flower simply surround the actual tiny male or female parts. The sap from poinsettias is very mildly irritating. Other common Euphorbias include the Crown of Thorns and Mediterranean Spurge.

Like any plant, there is a right place for this striking beauty. Be sure that it is planted away from paths and entryways. If you need to trim it, follow the guidance below. Be especially careful of touching your eyes even if you feel that you have no sap on your hands.

The University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources (UCANR) advises:

• Never touch Firesticks with bare hands, always wear gloves, and wash your hands thoroughly with soap after any contact. Also, wear protective clothing such as long sleeves, long pants, sturdy shoes, and eye protection, and wash your clothes after working with this plant.
• Plant it in the ground because it will quickly outgrow a pot. Once planted in the ground, consider completely removing it every three years and starting over with a cutting because the plant will fill out its space and become difficult to prune once it is large.
• Always use proper pruning techniques and prune evenly starting at the bottom and working your way upwards so the toxic sap does not rain down on you as you are pruning. Do not prune into a tree shape as it will become top-heavy and fall over.
• Note how large the plant grows (40 feet tall by 10 feet wide in frost-free areas) and make sure it is planted a safe distance away from sidewalks. A pedestrian or pet may accidentally brush up against its brittle 'leaves' causing a piece to break off and cause severe injury as it releases its toxic milky sap.
• Firesticks have recently created an increasing health problem as many who garden with it, have ended up in a hospital emergency room. This can be the result of not being extremely cautious when working with this plant. Children and pets should not play near this plant. 

This information has been quoted from the following resource:

https://ucanr.edu/sites/PlantSafely/ToxicPlantList/Euphorbia_tirucalli/

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Valorie Shatynski has been a Master Gardener since 2016