Euphorbia flanaganii - Medusa's Head

Euphorbia flanaganii – Medusa’s Head

You will receive this exact specimen!
Measures 7”w x 3”h. 
Roots as shown
Showcased here in cement planter (sold separately).  
Will be shipped bare root.

Euphorbia flanaganii, commonly known as Medusa's Head or Transkei Medusa’s Head, is a dwarf, thorny, succulent plant belonging to the Euphorbiaceae family. It's also called the Medusa plant because its branches radiate from a central stem, resembling locks of hair. This plant is native to arid regions of South Africa, specifically the eastern-central and southeastern Cape Provinces and southern KwaZulu-Natal. 

Physical characteristics

·        It forms a thick caudex (a swollen, underground stem) from which tendril-like branches spread out horizontally, reaching up to 400 mm (16 inches) in diameter.

·        Leaves are small and linear, about 10 mm long and 1 mm broad.

·        When given ample light, it produces clusters of tiny, bright yellow flowers at the apex of the caudex, usually in late summer and autumn. 

Care and cultivation

·        Light: Prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. However, plants grown in shade need to be slowly acclimated to full sun to prevent scorching.

·        Water: Does not tolerate extended periods of drought as well as some succulents. Water when the top half of the soil is dry, or when the branches start to curl inward, which indicates a need for water.

·        Soil: Requires well-draining soil. A high-quality potting mix amended with pumice, perlite, or chicken grit is ideal.

·        Temperature: Hardy to 28°F (-2°C), but it's best to protect it from frost. Thrives in temperatures between 45 and 95 degrees Fahrenheit.

·        Propagation: Most commonly propagated by cuttings. 

Special considerations

·        Toxicity: The milky sap (latex) produced by the plant is poisonous and can irritate skin, eyes, and mouth. Handle with care and consider wearing gloves.

·        Conservation Status: 

Populations of Euphorbia flanaganii are decreasing due to habitat loss and harvesting for medicinal uses, and it is assessed as Vulnerable (VU) in the Red List of South African plants.