Euphorbia flanaganii

Scientific name

Euphorbia flanaganii

General description

Euphorbia flanaganii is a sculptural succulent notable for its serpentine cylindrical stems that spread from a central caudex, forming a crown reminiscent of Medusa's hair. With very limited foliage, this plant is valued primarily for its shape and dark-green graphic appearance.

Origin

Native to the Cape region of South Africa, where it grows in rocky, well-drained soils, exposed to full sun or partial shade depending on conditions.

Care

• Light : Bright light, ideally direct sunlight for several hours or very strong indirect light to maintain its color and shape.
• Watering : water moderately; let the substrate dry completely between two waterings; in winter, space out waterings considerably.
• Humidity : Low to moderate; no need for high humidity, too humid or stagnant atmosphere is unfavorable.
• Temperature : Prefers warm temperatures between 18 and 30°C; does not tolerate frost or prolonged cold temperatures.
• Substrate : very well-draining soil, special mix for succulents or cacti, with inorganic elements (pumice stone, gravel, perlite) to avoid water retention around the caudex.

Special advice

• Handle with care: Contains a milky sap that irritates skin and eyes.
• Use a pot with good drainage, avoid deep or non-perforated pots.
• Provide at least 6 hours of bright light if possible to stimulate caudex health and stem growth.
• Do not repot frequently; this plant prefers to be a little cramped to show off its sculptural caudex.
• Toxic if swallowed by animals and humans.