Although this is an easy care plant that just needs bright light and a little bit of water to do well it does have a downside.
Pencil plant toxic. Poinsettias euphorbia pulcherrima are on all the toxic plant lists are really are one of the least toxic of all the toxic plants there are. Surprisingly the literature is full of remedies made from euphorbia saps most involving native peoples who have treated everything under the sun almost with just about every plant concoction they can think of. Another common name for the plant is milkbush due to the cloudy sap it releases when injured. The sap is toxic and may cause problems in some people.
But as scary as barely being able to breathe is an up close and personal experience with a poisonous plant was very educational. The plant pencil cactus euphorbia tirucalli was the culprit in this late night adventure. If ingested it can cause burns to the mouth lips and tongue. Exposure to it can cause blindness.
Jack in the pulpit three leaved indian turnip devil s dear wake robin starch wort wild turnip dragon root bog onion pepper turnip brown dragon memory root scientific names. The pencil cactus plant is in the euphorbia family of succulents. If you suspect your pet may have ingested a potentially toxic substance call the apcc at 888 426 4435 or contact your local veterinarian as soon as possible. They can cause serious intestinal injuries and skin injuries.
All parts of these plants are considered poisonous and should be kept away from pets and children. The milky latex from e. Pencil succulents including euphorbia tirucalli are toxic to humans dogs and cats. The pencil cactus needs high levels of light and moderately low moisture.
Be cautious when caring for a pencil cactus. Arisaema triphyllum family. A pencil cactus grows quickly and can reach a height of 10 15 outdoors and up to 6 in an indoor container. Skin contact causes severe irritation redness and a burning sensation.
Tirucalli is extremely irritating to the skin and mucosa and is toxic. It is suggested to wear eye protection gear and gloves for handling the plant. Irritant sap latex clinical signs.