Devil's Backbone, Redbird Cactus
euphorbia tithymaloides
Also known as: ["Jacob's Ladder","Devil's Backbone","Redbird Cactus"]
Overview
A succulent-like plant with unique zigzag stems and green leaves, often bearing red flowers. It is known for its striking appearance and drought tolerance.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","low maintenance","aesthetic foliage","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Euphorbiaceae |
| Genus: | Euphorbia |
| Botanical Name: | Euphorbia tithymaloides |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright location or sheltered outdoor spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining cactus or succulent mix with added perlite or sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 1–2 years or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates some direct sun but prefers filtered light.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to avoid scorching; place in bright indirect light indoors; move outdoors in spring/summer with partial shade.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
bright indirect light to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; avoid direct midday sun; adjust light based on season.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering; water less in dormant periods.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or loamy soil with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy garden soil; refresh soil every 2–3 years.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but avoid prolonged exposure to extreme cold or heat.
Protect from drafts; maintain stable temperatures; adjust care for seasonal changes.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Fertilize less in winter; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use balanced fertilizer.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are the most common method.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy stem cutting.
- Let it callus for a few days.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining mix like cactus soil or perlite and peat moss.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth in 1–3 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife or scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Allow cuttings to callus before planting; maintain humidity; use sterile tools.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems just above a leaf node or junction; wear gloves to avoid sap irritation.
Pruning Plan
Prune to control size, shape, and remove dead or damaged growth; encourages bushier growth.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Wear gloves; sterilize tools; cut above nodes; dispose of pruned material.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2–3 inches in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if necessary, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; use fresh well-draining soil.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; trim roots; use fresh soil; water lightly.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water deeply at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, coarse sand, or pumice to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves (cold stress), wilting or leaf drop (heat stress), stunted growth.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf yellowing, and may lead to root rot if soil remains cold and wet.
Solution: Move to a warmer location, ensure good drainage, and avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or drop; growth may slow; soil may dry out too quickly.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase humidity, and water more frequently if soil dries out.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with stems.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicEuphorbia tithymaloides is toxic to cats, with the milky sap being particularly irritating to their sensitive skin and mucous membranes. Ingestion can cause gastrointestinal upset and other systemic effects due to the plant's irritant compounds.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested or if sap comes into contact with skin or eyes
Dogs
ToxicThe milky sap of Euphorbia tithymaloides is toxic to dogs, causing irritation to the skin, mouth, and gastrointestinal tract. Ingestion can lead to significant discomfort and potential systemic effects due to the irritant compounds present in the sap.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested or if sap comes into contact with skin or eyes
Humans
ToxicThe milky sap of Euphorbia tithymaloides contains diterpenoid esters, which are irritants that can cause severe skin and eye irritation. Ingestion can lead to gastrointestinal distress and systemic toxicity due to the sap's irritant properties.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested or if sap comes into contact with skin or eyes
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Euphorbia tithymaloides toxic to pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water this plant?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Q: Does this plant require direct sunlight?
A: It thrives in bright, indirect light but can tolerate some direct sunlight.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Euphorbiaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | bright indirect light to parti |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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