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A hand holds a small square pot with a Euphorbia flanaganii Medusa Head Plant, its thin, snake-like stems over rocky soil.
A hand displays a Medusa Head Plant (Euphorbia flanaganii) in a small green pot with spiky stems and nursery plants in the background.
Close-up of Euphorbia flanaganii Medusa Head Plant with thin, green finger-like stems in rocky soil; blurred plants and pebbles behind.
Close-up of a Medusa Head Plant 'Euphorbia flanaganii' in a small pot with rocky soil, held in one hand, blurred plants behind.
Top view of Medusa Head Plant 'Euphorbia flanaganii' with wavy stems radiating on a wooden surface, set against a gravel background.
Medusa Head Plant 'Euphorbia flanaganii' with green, spiky, twisting stems on tan and gray gravel stones.
Close-up of Euphorbia flanaganii, the Medusa Head Plant, with green spiky stems and small yellow flowers against a sandy backdrop.
Medusa Head Plant (Euphorbia flanaganii) succulent displayed in a pot, showcasing its unique, snakelike green stems.
A Medusa Head Plant (Euphorbia flanaganii) with green spiky stems grows from a small square pot filled with light gravel.
Close-up of a Medusa Head Plant (Euphorbia flanaganii) with spiky green stems displayed in a gravel-filled pot.
Medusa Head Plant 'Euphorbia flanaganii' with curling green stems in a square pot on a wooden surface, blurred plants behind.
Euphorbia flanaganii Medusa Head Plant with spiky stems and yellow blooms in a square pebble pot, outdoors in sunlight.
Euphorbia flanaganii Medusa Head Plant with green, spiky stems radiates from the center, shown in rocky soil among other potted plants.
The Medusa Head Plant 'Euphorbia flanaganii' with spiky green stems in a square pot filled with rocks on a wooden surface.
Medusa Head Plant 'Euphorbia flanaganii' with spiky green stems and yellow flowers in a square pot with rocks, outdoors.
Medusa Head Plant (Euphorbia flanaganii) with green spiky stems and yellow flowers in a pot with light rocks, outdoors in sunlight.
Euphorbia flanaganii Medusa Head Plant with green, spiky stems in a small square pot with gravel on a wooden surface outdoors.
Euphorbia flanaganii Medusa Head Plant with green spiky stems and yellow flowers in a square rock pot, shown outdoors on wood.
Top-down view of Medusa Head Plant ‘Euphorbia flanaganii’ with green, spiky arms and yellow flowers in a square pot on wood surface.
Top view of Euphorbia flanaganii, known as Medusa Head Plant, featuring spiky arms and yellow flowers on a wooden surface.
A green, spiky Medusa Head Plant (Euphorbia flanaganii) with long stems sits in a square container with pebbles outdoors.
Euphorbia flanaganii Medusa Head Plant with curly green stems in a small green pot on wood outdoors, blurred plants in background.
A person in a blue shirt holds a Medusa Head Plant (Euphorbia flanaganii) with spiky green stems in rocky soil, potted in brown plastic.
A person in a blue shirt and gray sweater holds a round pot with gray rocks and a green Medusa Head Plant, viewed from above.
The Medusa Head Plant 'Euphorbia flanaganii' has spiky green stems in a round pot with gray rocks, cradled gently in hands.
Top view of Medusa Head Plant 'Euphorbia flanaganii' in a pot with long, thin stems and yellow buds on light gravel background.
Euphorbia flanaganii Medusa Head plant with thick, spiky green stems in a black plastic pot, set before soft yellow-green foliage.
Euphorbia flanaganii Medusa Head Plant with spiky green stems in a pot with white rocks, displayed on a dark blue background.
Top view of Euphorbia flanaganii Medusa Head Plant with spiky stems, small yellow flowers, and gravel around the base.
Close-up of Medusa Head Plant 'Euphorbia flanaganii' showing green spiky stems and small yellow flowers with blurred succulents behind.
Close-up of Euphorbia flanaganii Medusa Head Plant with green spiky stems, red tips, clustered bumps, and bright yellow flowers.
Close-up of a Medusa Head Plant (Euphorbia flanaganii) with green spiky stems and yellow flowers in a pot outdoors.
Close-up of a cactus and Medusa Head Plant (Euphorbia flanaganii), showcasing their distinctive textures and unique shapes.
Close-up of the Medusa Head Plant 'Euphorbia flanaganii' in a black pot, featuring dense upright green stems; blurred plants behind.
A hand reaches toward a Medusa Head Plant (Euphorbia flanaganii) in a black pot, outdoors among other plants on gravel.
Euphorbia flanaganii Medusa Head Plant with green wavy stems and yellow flowers in a black pot against a light brick wall.
Euphorbia flanaganii (Medusa Head Plant) in a pot, showing long green and reddish stems, on gravel in bright sunlight.
The Medusa Head Plant, Euphorbia flanaganii, displays twisting, snake-like stems and flourishes in a pot as an eye-catching centerpiece.
Euphorbia flanaganii Medusa Head Plant with green, spiky twisted stems in a black plastic pot, set against a light rocky background.
A Medusa Head Plant (Euphorbia flanaganii) with spiky green stems in a black pot, set before a textured stone wall and greenery.
Euphorbia flanaganii Medusa Head Plant with green, spiky stems in a black pot, displayed before a beige stone wall background.
Euphorbia flanaganii Medusa Head Plant with green, finger-like stems and yellow flowers in a black pot against a light stone backdrop.
A black pot holds a healthy Euphorbia flanaganii Medusa Head Plant, with vibrant green spiky stems spilling over by a light brick wall.
Close-up of Euphorbia flanaganii Medusa Head Plant with green spiky stems and yellow flowers in a black pot, brick wall background.
Close-up of a Medusa Head Plant (Euphorbia flanaganii) with spiky green stems and small yellow flowers in a pot by a brick wall.
Medusa Head Plant (Euphorbia flanaganii) with thin, green finger-like stems in a black plastic pot on gravel in bright sunlight.
Medusa Head Plant (Euphorbia flanaganii) with spiky green stems and yellow flowers in a pot on gravel, in bright sunlight.

Introducing the Medusa Head, also known as 'Euphorbia flanaganii', a beautiful member of the EuphorbiaGo to Euphorbia genus!

In ancient Greek mythology, Medusa became a Gorgon, a female monster with snakes for hair and a gaze that could turn people into stone.  The plant's unique appearance, with its twisting, snake-like stems, and tufts of green leaves at the top, is said to resemble the head of Medusa, who was known for her hair made of snakes.

Close-up of Euphorbia flanaganii, the Medusa Head Plant, with thick green stems and bright yellow flowers in a snake-like pattern.

Its snake-like branches can spread up to 16 inches in diameter, giving this stunning medusa head succulent an almost pan-like shape.

When it comes to flowers, clusters of yellow cyathium appear in the center of the plant at the tip of the stem in the summer; it's like having a tiny sun in your own home. This is definitely its most beautiful feature.

Just wait until late winter or early spring, when tiny, brilliant yellow flowers cover this Euphorbia from head to toe.

With time, new pups will appear at the tips of its tendrils and form their own caudices - it's a never-ending cycle of bizarre beauty! This weird and wild succulent will continue to amaze as it grows into an even larger Medusa-like creation.

This medusa head is exceptionally easy to propagate by divisions and cuttings so you can quickly grow your collection with just a few simple steps. 

When and How to Water Your Medusa Plant

The Medusa head Euphorbia is a succulent that definitely stands out from the crowd! Unlike its desert-dwelling counterparts, this little guy doesn't do well with extended periods of drought. If you're lucky enough to be the proud owner of one of these unique plants, make sure to water it weekly during those hot summer months.  

During the growing season, typically spring and summer, water thoroughly when the top inch of soil is dry. In winter, reduce watering to prevent root rot.

When the soil is dry several inches below the surface, don't hesitate to give it a good soak. And get this - when your Medusa Head is feeling parched and in need of some hydration, it'll actually start curling its arms towards the center as if to say, "I'm thirsty!" So cute and clever!  

Just make sure not to overdo it and let them sit in standing water, or else they could develop root rot. 

Light Requirements - Where to Place Your Euphorbia flanaganii

When growing indoors, it thrives in bright, indirect light for at least 4-6 hours daily. Place it near a window where it can receive plenty of sunlight without being directly exposed to harsh rays.

Without enough light, photosynthesis rates drop, branches become thin, colors appear dull, there is an unhealthy look to the plant, and growth is stunted.  

For outdoor cultivation, the medusa head prefers full sun to partial shade. To ensure that your succulent thrives, provide 6-8 hours of bright light for healthy growth. 

Remember, learn to adjust your Medusa euphorbia to avoid burns if the location where you have the plant is exposed to direct sunlight. 

Optimal Soil & Fertilizer Needs

The Euphorbia head medusa prefers very airy, porous, nutrient-rich soil with a pH of 5.5 - 6.7. Succulents require fast-draining soil that dries completely between waterings. Your soil must have a sandy texture and a low water-holding capacity, just like desert soil.  Ideally, you want to use our specialized succulent potting mix that contains organic mycorrhizae to promote the development of a strong root system that helps your Euphorbia succulent to thrive.  

When it comes to fertilizing your medusas head plant, it only needs a small amount of fertilizer applied once a year in spring. Succulent prefers a fertilizer with lower doses of NPK, with a maximum ratio of 5-10-5 that is higher in phosphorus than nitrogen.

Hardiness Zones & More

When growing indoors, the Medusa head enjoys hot temperatures. They prefer constant temperatures above 65-70 degrees Fahrenheit and can tolerate triple digits in the summer, so don't worry if your succulent gets too hot.  

It prefers moderate humidity, so misting the plant occasionally or placing a humidifier nearby can help maintain its health and appearance. Avoid placing the plant near drafty windows or heating vents, as extreme temperature fluctuations can stress the plant.

For outdoor cultivation, the medusa head grows best in USDA zones 9 - 11. It cannot handle frost, cold, or freezing temperatures, so make sure it doesn't get below 30 degrees F in its environment.   

Final Thoughts

Overall, the Medusa Head Plant (Euphorbia flanaganii) is a unique succulent with thick, cylindrical stems that resemble the snakes on Medusa's head. This plant thrives in bright, indirect light and requires well-draining soil to prevent root rot. Additionally, it is important to avoid overwatering and allow the soil to dry out between waterings to keep this striking plant healthy and happy. Be sure to add Euphorbia flanaganii to your collection today and elevate the beauty of your home or garden with this stunning-looking plant. 

Back To Plant Description Main Page

  • Is Medusa's head poisonous?

    Medusa's head is toxic to humans and animals if ingested. It produces a milky sap that can cause skin irritation and eye damage if it comes into contact with the skin or eyes. It is important to handle this plant with care and keep it out of reach of children and pets. 

  • Is Medusa's head a cactus? 

    Medusa's head is not a cactus but a succulent
    plant. While it may look similar to some cacti, it is a member of the Euphorbia family and is native to South Africa. Like cacti, it is adapted to
    arid environments and is able to store water in its thick stems. 

  • Does a Medusa plant flower? 

    Yes, Medusa's head can produce small bright yellow, insignificant flowers in the spring and summer. However, the plant is typically grown for its unique, sculptural form rather than its flowers. 

Back To Plant Description Main Page

Pests & Common Problems of Medusa Head

Mealy bugs and spider mites commonly prey on these plants. The roots, needle-like leaves, and fruits of Europhobia flanaganii are depleted by mealybugs. As a result of their excretion of honeydew, the plant's surroundings begin to grow sooty mold.

The leaves turn yellow and start to dry out when the succulent is severely infested with these bugs. The shedding of leaves can be a sign of a severe infestation. 

You can get rid of mealybugs and spider mites by spraying the infested plant with a solution of liquid soap and water. Applying pesticides is another way to get rid of these pests. Use pesticides derived from plants like neem or pyrethrum.

Another method is to soak a piece of cotton wool in alcohol and dab it on the infested areas. Alternatively, you could use high-pressure water to physically flush the bugs out of the affected areas. Furthermore, too much water or poorly draining soil can develop root rot, so avoid overwatering these medusa's head. 

Growers Quick Reference Guide - Key Features

Frequently Asked
Questions

  • Is Medusa's head poisonous?

    Medusa's head is toxic to humans and animals if ingested. It produces a milky sap that can cause skin irritation and eye damage if it comes into contact with the skin or eyes. It is important to handle this plant with care and keep it out of reach of children and pets. 

  • Is Medusa's head a cactus? 

    Medusa's head is not a cactus but a succulent
    plant. While it may look similar to some cacti, it is a member of the Euphorbia family and is native to South Africa. Like cacti, it is adapted to
    arid environments and is able to store water in its thick stems. 

  • Does a Medusa plant flower? 

    Yes, Medusa's head can produce small bright yellow, insignificant flowers in the spring and summer. However, the plant is typically grown for its unique, sculptural form rather than its flowers. 

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Medusa Head Plant 'Euphorbia flanaganii'

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Please note: Our large plants are shipped bare root. They are also many years old, and as a result, they might have minor scaring but will arrive healthy and looking great.

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Any plant that is 6" and larger that is not in our Houseplant category will be shipped bare root (without a pot).

What makes us different is the passion and the attention to detail in all we do here at Planet Desert. We are confident in the quality of our products. That’s why all our plants have a 100% satisfaction guarantee.

If you are not 100% satisfied with your purchase, you can return the product and get a refund or exchange it for another one — similar or not. Shipping charges may apply.

You can return a product for up to 14 days from the date of purchase. Please submit photos with your order number to info@planetdesert.com to initiate your return. Shipping fees may apply.

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  • Description
  • Key Plant Features

Introducing the Medusa Head, also known as 'Euphorbia flanaganii', a beautiful member of the EuphorbiaGo to Euphorbia genus!

In ancient Greek mythology, Medusa became a Gorgon, a female monster with snakes for hair and a gaze that could turn people into stone.  The plant's unique appearance, with its twisting, snake-like stems, and tufts of green leaves at the top, is said to resemble the head of Medusa, who was known for her hair made of snakes.

Close-up of Euphorbia flanaganii, the Medusa Head Plant, with thick green stems and bright yellow flowers in a snake-like pattern.

Its snake-like branches can spread up to 16 inches in diameter, giving this stunning medusa head succulent an almost pan-like shape.

When it comes to flowers, clusters of yellow cyathium appear in the center of the plant at the tip of the stem in the summer; it's like having a tiny sun in your own home. This is definitely its most beautiful feature.

Just wait until late winter or early spring, when tiny, brilliant yellow flowers cover this Euphorbia from head to toe.

With time, new pups will appear at the tips of its tendrils and form their own caudices - it's a never-ending cycle of bizarre beauty! This weird and wild succulent will continue to amaze as it grows into an even larger Medusa-like creation.

This medusa head is exceptionally easy to propagate by divisions and cuttings so you can quickly grow your collection with just a few simple steps. 

When and How to Water Your Medusa Plant

The Medusa head Euphorbia is a succulent that definitely stands out from the crowd! Unlike its desert-dwelling counterparts, this little guy doesn't do well with extended periods of drought. If you're lucky enough to be the proud owner of one of these unique plants, make sure to water it weekly during those hot summer months.  

During the growing season, typically spring and summer, water thoroughly when the top inch of soil is dry. In winter, reduce watering to prevent root rot.

When the soil is dry several inches below the surface, don't hesitate to give it a good soak. And get this - when your Medusa Head is feeling parched and in need of some hydration, it'll actually start curling its arms towards the center as if to say, "I'm thirsty!" So cute and clever!  

Just make sure not to overdo it and let them sit in standing water, or else they could develop root rot. 

Light Requirements - Where to Place Your Euphorbia flanaganii

When growing indoors, it thrives in bright, indirect light for at least 4-6 hours daily. Place it near a window where it can receive plenty of sunlight without being directly exposed to harsh rays.

Without enough light, photosynthesis rates drop, branches become thin, colors appear dull, there is an unhealthy look to the plant, and growth is stunted.  

For outdoor cultivation, the medusa head prefers full sun to partial shade. To ensure that your succulent thrives, provide 6-8 hours of bright light for healthy growth. 

Remember, learn to adjust your Medusa euphorbia to avoid burns if the location where you have the plant is exposed to direct sunlight. 

Optimal Soil & Fertilizer Needs

The Euphorbia head medusa prefers very airy, porous, nutrient-rich soil with a pH of 5.5 - 6.7. Succulents require fast-draining soil that dries completely between waterings. Your soil must have a sandy texture and a low water-holding capacity, just like desert soil.  Ideally, you want to use our specialized succulent potting mix that contains organic mycorrhizae to promote the development of a strong root system that helps your Euphorbia succulent to thrive.  

When it comes to fertilizing your medusas head plant, it only needs a small amount of fertilizer applied once a year in spring. Succulent prefers a fertilizer with lower doses of NPK, with a maximum ratio of 5-10-5 that is higher in phosphorus than nitrogen.

Hardiness Zones & More

When growing indoors, the Medusa head enjoys hot temperatures. They prefer constant temperatures above 65-70 degrees Fahrenheit and can tolerate triple digits in the summer, so don't worry if your succulent gets too hot.  

It prefers moderate humidity, so misting the plant occasionally or placing a humidifier nearby can help maintain its health and appearance. Avoid placing the plant near drafty windows or heating vents, as extreme temperature fluctuations can stress the plant.

For outdoor cultivation, the medusa head grows best in USDA zones 9 - 11. It cannot handle frost, cold, or freezing temperatures, so make sure it doesn't get below 30 degrees F in its environment.   

Final Thoughts

Overall, the Medusa Head Plant (Euphorbia flanaganii) is a unique succulent with thick, cylindrical stems that resemble the snakes on Medusa's head. This plant thrives in bright, indirect light and requires well-draining soil to prevent root rot. Additionally, it is important to avoid overwatering and allow the soil to dry out between waterings to keep this striking plant healthy and happy. Be sure to add Euphorbia flanaganii to your collection today and elevate the beauty of your home or garden with this stunning-looking plant. 

Attribute Value
Bloom Season Spring
Botanical Name Euphorbia flanaganii
Common Name Medusa Head, Euphorbia caput medusae
Dormancy Winter
Family Euphorbiaceae
Flower Color Green, Yellow
Genus Euphorbia
Growth Habit Trailing, hanging
Growth Rate Fast
Hardiness Zone 9, 10, 11
Mature Size 8 in. tall, 16 in. wide
Native Area South Africa
Plant Type Succulent
Propagation By offsets
Resistance Extremely drought-tolerant, deer resistant, heat resistant
Soil PH 6.5, Acidic, Neutral
Soil Type Succulent potting mix soil,
Special Features Tendril like branches
Sun Exposure Full sun (6+ hrs.), Partial shade (3–6 hrs. sun)
Toxicity Safe for humans, mildly toxic (Keep away from children)
Watering Needs Moderate

Pests & Common Problems of Medusa Head

Mealy bugs and spider mites commonly prey on these plants. The roots, needle-like leaves, and fruits of Europhobia flanaganii are depleted by mealybugs. As a result of their excretion of honeydew, the plant's surroundings begin to grow sooty mold.

The leaves turn yellow and start to dry out when the succulent is severely infested with these bugs. The shedding of leaves can be a sign of a severe infestation. 

You can get rid of mealybugs and spider mites by spraying the infested plant with a solution of liquid soap and water. Applying pesticides is another way to get rid of these pests. Use pesticides derived from plants like neem or pyrethrum.

Another method is to soak a piece of cotton wool in alcohol and dab it on the infested areas. Alternatively, you could use high-pressure water to physically flush the bugs out of the affected areas. Furthermore, too much water or poorly draining soil can develop root rot, so avoid overwatering these medusa's head. 

Growers Quick Reference Guide - Key Features

Frequently Asked
Questions

  • Is Medusa's head poisonous?

    Medusa's head is toxic to humans and animals if ingested. It produces a milky sap that can cause skin irritation and eye damage if it comes into contact with the skin or eyes. It is important to handle this plant with care and keep it out of reach of children and pets. 

  • Is Medusa's head a cactus? 

    Medusa's head is not a cactus but a succulent
    plant. While it may look similar to some cacti, it is a member of the Euphorbia family and is native to South Africa. Like cacti, it is adapted to
    arid environments and is able to store water in its thick stems. 

  • Does a Medusa plant flower? 

    Yes, Medusa's head can produce small bright yellow, insignificant flowers in the spring and summer. However, the plant is typically grown for its unique, sculptural form rather than its flowers. 

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