How to Root a Euphorbia Tirucalli

Euphorbia tirucalli is a succulent shrub that forms many thin, round and spineless branches, giving the plant the common name of the pencil tree. Native to much of Africa and growing well in dry grasslands and woodlands, E. tirucalli is typically grown as a specimen plant in the United States. Rooting easily from cuttings, the pencil plant is simple to propagate if the cuttings are first allowed to dry, forming a callus on the cut end to prevent the risk of fungus attacking the cutting when planted.

Potting soil
Builder's sand
Peat moss
Plant pot
Razor knife

Instructions

- 1
  Mix moist potting soil, builder's sand and peat moss in equal amounts to produce a succulent rooting mixture. Fill a 3- to 5-inch plant pot with the rooting mixture and press the soil down firmly in the pot.
- 2
  Cut a small branch from the parent Euphorbia with a relatively long base stem and several branching stems, using the razor knife. Set the branch aside so the cut end dries out, forming a callus.
- 3
  Poke a hole in the rooting mixture with a pencil about half the length of the base stem of the cut branch. Insert the cut end into the soil and firm the soil around the cutting.
- 4
  Water the branch one week after planting. Water sparingly after that, allowing the rooting mixture to dry out thoroughly between waterings.

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