The Euphorbia tirucalli, commonly known as the Pencil Cactus, captivates with its unique form and remarkable resilience. Native to the semi-arid regions of Africa and Asia, this succulent plant is characterised by its cylindrical, leafless green stems, giving it a minimalist and modern appearance. Reaching an average height of 6 to 8 metres in its natural habitat, it blends seamlessly into tropical landscape designs, such as those found in the Au Bois Vert botanical garden in Ivato, near Antananarivo.
This plant thrives in well-drained soils and warm climates. Its fleshy stems store water, allowing it to survive in extreme drought conditions. Moreover, the Euphorbia tirucalli, or Pencil Cactus, requires minimal maintenance, making it an excellent choice for botanical gardens and arid environments. During its flowering season, small yellow or creamy-white flowers appear discreetly at the tips of its stems, adding a delicate touch to its structured silhouette.
At the Au Bois Vert botanical garden, this plant is showcased in landscape compositions that create an exotic atmosphere. Its sculptural shapes and resilience complement the surrounding spaces, including the hotels, restaurants, and lodges in the area. It also plays an important ecological role by providing shelter and food for certain species of insects and birds. Its presence thus contributes to local biodiversity and enhances visitors’ experience.
Plant use
The Pencil Euphorbia has a wide range of uses, making it valuable in several fields. In traditional African and Asian medicine, its white latex—though toxic if handled without care—is used to treat ailments such as muscle pain and warts. However, this practice requires great expertise to avoid the adverse effects associated with its toxicity. In semi-arid regions, this plant is often used as a living hedge to mark boundaries or protect crops, thanks to its sturdy stems and deterrent latex, which discourages herbivores. It is also valued in sustainable agriculture as a biomass source and for improving soil water retention. Its ornamental appeal is another significant asset. Landscape architects incorporate it into modern, minimalist gardens, where its green stems create an elegant structure. At the Au Bois Vert botanical garden, this plant is part of an aesthetic and educational approach, raising awareness among visitors about its ecological importance and diverse applications.
Key information
| Common name | Pencil Cactus |
| Scientific name | Euphorbia tirucalli |
| Origin | Africa and Asia |
| Natural habitat | Semi-arid regions |
| Life cycle | Perennial plant |
| Flowering period | Varies according to weather conditions |
