Euphorbia flanaganii ‘Medusa’s Head’ Ø14cm

Description

Euphorbia flanaganii ‘Medusa’s Head’ is a striking and unique succulent known for its unusual, spiraling, snake-like stems that resemble the mythical Medusa’s hair. This plant’s distinct appearance makes it an eye-catching addition to any collection. Native to South Africa, it thrives in dry, sunny conditions and is an excellent choice for succulent enthusiasts or anyone looking to add an exotic touch to their indoor or outdoor garden.

Full Botanical Name: Euphorbia flanaganii ‘Medusa’s Head’
Common Names: Medusa’s Head Euphorbia, Medusa’s Head Cactus
Country and/or Region of Origin: Native to South Africa
Growing Conditions in Native Habitat: Grows in arid, rocky environments, typically found in full sun with minimal water in well-draining, sandy soil

Care Guide:
Light: Prefers bright, direct light. It thrives in full sunlight, which helps maintain its compact, spiral shape. While it can tolerate some partial shade, too much shade can cause it to stretch and become leggy.
Ideal Room: Ideal for bright windowsills, living rooms, or patios with plenty of sunlight. It’s perfect for small spaces and succulent collections, where its unusual form can be showcased.
Feeding: Fertilize once every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring to summer) with a diluted, balanced liquid fertilizer. Avoid fertilizing during the fall and winter months when the plant is dormant.
Humidity: Prefers low humidity, typical of its native arid environments. It thrives in dry air and does not require additional misting or humidity trays.
Ideal Temperature: Best kept between 65°F and 85°F (18°C to 29°C). Protect from cold drafts and temperatures below 50°F (10°C), as it is sensitive to frost and will not tolerate cold conditions.
Watering: Water sparingly. Allow the soil to dry completely between waterings, and avoid overwatering as this can cause root rot. During the winter months, reduce watering even further, as the plant enters a dormant phase.
Pet/Child Safe: Toxic to pets and children if ingested. Keep out of reach of animals and young children to prevent accidental ingestion, which can cause irritation or digestive upset.
Soil Type: Use a well-draining, sandy potting mix. A mix designed for cacti or succulents will provide the right balance of moisture retention and drainage, which is essential for the health of Euphorbia flanaganii ‘Medusa’s Head.’
Propagation: Propagate by stem cuttings. Carefully cut a healthy stem and let it dry out for a few days to allow the wound to callous over. Once calloused, plant the cutting in well-draining soil and wait for roots to develop.
Eventual Height and Spread: Typically grows up to 6-12 inches (15-30 cm) tall, with a spread of 6-8 inches (15-20 cm). Its compact size and unique appearance make it ideal for small spaces, succulent arrangements, or as a statement piece in any room.
Growth Rate: Slow-growing. It forms a compact cluster of twisting stems and can take a few years to reach its full size. Despite its slow growth, its striking shape and texture make it a highly valued addition to any plant collection.
Pests and Treatment: Generally resistant to pests, but may occasionally attract mealybugs, aphids, or spider mites. Treat infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil to keep the plant healthy.
Repotting: Repot every 2-3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one to allow healthy root growth, and ensure it has good drainage to prevent water retention.
Pruning: Prune dead or damaged stems regularly to maintain the plant’s appearance. Cutting back leggy growth encourages the plant to focus energy on producing new, healthy stems.
Air Purification: While Euphorbia flanaganii ‘Medusa’s Head’ is not known for air purification, its unique and striking form adds a sense of intrigue and character to any room, creating a more pleasant and aesthetically pleasing environment.
Folklore: Euphorbia plants are often associated with resilience and protection. In some cultures, they are believed to bring strength and vitality, making them a symbol of endurance and survival, particularly in harsh or challenging environments.