Euphorbia flanaganii (Medusa Head)

Euphorbia flanaganii is a distinctive succulent species native to South Africa, where it grows in dry, rocky habitats with strong sun and excellent drainage.

It is valued for its sculptural growth habit and its showy seasonal flowering.

What makes Euphorbia flanaganii distinctive?

Euphorbia flanaganii develops a short central caudex from which numerous slender, cylindrical branches radiate outward along the ground, creating the characteristic 'Medusa's head' appearance. The branches are green, finger-like, and often root where they touch the soil, allowing the plant to slowly spread into dense mats. Bright yellow cyathia appear in abundance near the center and along the inner portions of the stems during warm periods, creating a vivid floral display that contrasts strongly with the deep green branches and adds a lively ornamental accent to the plant's distinctive form. This species thrives in bright light with very fast-draining soil and minimal watering, remaining compact and healthy under dry conditions. In USDA Plant Hardiness Zones 9b 11, it performs well outdoors in arid and Mediterranean-style gardens, while in cooler climates it is best grown in containers with protection from frost.