The pencil bush (Euphorbia tirucalli) sounds quite harmless with its name due to the visual appearance of the plant, but you should exercise a certain degree of caution when handling this plant. Finally, similar to other euphorbias, the caustic, milky-white plant sap immediately comes out when the pencil bush is injured.
Is Euphorbia tirucalli poisonous?
Is the pencil bush (Euphorbia tirucalli) poisonous? Yes, pencil bush sap is poisonous and can cause irritation if it comes into contact with skin. Keep children and pets away from the plant and wear protective gloves when caring for or propagating.
Deceptive security?
Since Euphorbia tirucalli, as a succulent shrub, only needs to be watered about once a week, it has become quite popular as an easy-care and exotic-looking houseplant. But that shouldn't hide the fact that the plant (like many other house and garden plants) can be a disaster for inexperienced children and pets.
Do not come into contact with the plant sap
If Euphorbia tirucalli stands undisturbed in a plant pot by the window in a suitable location, the attractive shrub with the decoratively thickened branches does not have an immediate harmful effect. To ensure that the plant sap does not cause dangerous skin irritations and symptoms of poisoning, you should observe the following safety instructions:
- Never leave children and pets unattended in a room with a Euphorbia tirucalli
- Wear protective gloves (€13.00 on Amazon) when cutting
- If you touch the milky juice, wash it off immediately with plenty of clean water
Tip
Wearing rubber gloves is particularly important when propagating the pencil bush, as the poisonous latex comes out immediately when the cuttings are cut.
