Water
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil is dry, reducing frequency in cooler months. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot. Ensure good drainage.
Also known as Devil's Backbone · Devils Backbone · Jacob's Ladder
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Red-bird cactus (Euphorbia tithymaloides) is a succulent shrub with bright red, bird-shaped bracts that bloom year-round in warm climates.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Prefers bright, indirect light.
100% intensity
Can tolerate some direct morning sun.
Water when the top inch of soil is dry.
100% intensity
Reduce watering in winter.
Requires a well-draining potting mix, such as a cactus or succulent blend. Sandy loam is also suitable.
50% intensity
Thrives in warm temperatures.
100% intensity
Protect from frost.
Outdoor, Indoor, Greenhouse
50% intensity
Feed during the growing season.
100% intensity
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 5/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 5/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil is dry, reducing frequency in cooler months. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot. Ensure good drainage.
Prune to maintain shape, remove dead or damaged stems, and encourage bushier growth. Pruning can be done at any time of year, but is best done after flowering.
Easily propagated from stem cuttings. Allow cuttings to callus for a few days before planting in well-draining soil. Can also be grown from seed.
Repot every 2-3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Use a pot that is only slightly larger than the previous one. Repot in spring.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Euphorbia Tithymaloides (Euphorbia tithymaloides)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| kingdom | Plantae |
| division | Tracheophyta |
| class | Magnoliopsida |
| order | Malpighiales |
| family | Euphorbiaceae |
| genus | Euphorbia |
| species | Euphorbia tithymaloides |
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data