Medusa’s Head (Euphorbia caput-medusae) – Succulent plants

Medusa’s Head (Euphorbia caput-medusae) is a succulent plant which resembles the head of Medusa, with many serpent-like stems arising from a short, central caudex. It has numerous gray-green, bumpy-textured branches up to 90 cm long with a knobbed terminal end where small deciduous leaves are produced. White flowers bloom on short stalks rising from the ends of young branches in the spring and summer. It can reach about 30 cm high with a 90 cm spread.

Scientific classification:

Family: Euphorbiaceae
Subfamily: Euphorbioideae
Tribe: Euphorbieae
Subtribe: Euphorbiinae
Genus: Euphorbia

Scientific Name: Euphorbia caput-medusae
Synonyms: Euphorbia commelinii, Euphorbia fructuspini, Euphorbia geminata, Euphorbia medusae, Euphorbia parvimamma, Euphorbia tessellata, Medusea fructus-pini, Medusea major, Medusea tessellata.
Common Names: Medusa’s Head, Medusa Head

How to grow and maintain Medusa’s Head (Euphorbia caput-medusae):

Light:
It requires bright, indirect light but avoid direct sunlight as this may scorch the plant.

Soil:
It grows best in well-drained soil, a mix of 3 parts soil-based potting mix and 1 part grit. They are not particular about soil pH, but make sure the soil is moist at all times during the spring and summer months.

Water:
Water your plant regularly during the growing season and always keep the soil evenly moist but never allow your plant to sit in water. You can allow the topsoil to become slightly dry between each watering. During the winter months, reduce watering.

Temperature:
It prefers an optimal temperature between 24 degrees Celsius – 26 degrees Celsius / 75 degrees Fahrenheit – 78 degrees Fahrenheit.

Fertilizer:
Fertilize the plant monthly during spring and summer, With a water-soluble fertilizer mixed to half strength.

Propagation:
Euphorbia plant can be propagated from seed, however, they can be difficult to germinate. It is generally propagated by cuttings.

Pests and Diseases:
It has no serious pest or disease problems. Watch for mealybugs, powdery mildew, and spider mites.