Water
Allow soil to dry out completely between waterings, especially during dormancy. Overwatering is the most common cause of rot. Water thoroughly when dry, ensuring good drainage.
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Medusa's Head (Euphorbia caput-medusae) is a succulent with a bizarre, octopus-like appearance, forming a dense cluster of snake-like arms. Native to South Africa.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Prefers bright, direct sunlight.
75% intensity
Can tolerate partial shade but may etiolate.
Allow soil to dry out completely between waterings.
25% intensity
Infrequent, but thorough when needed.
Well-draining
50% intensity
Tolerates warm to hot temperatures.
75% intensity
Protect from frost; prefers temperatures between 18-30°C.
Feed sparingly during the growing season.
25% intensity
Use a diluted succulent or cactus fertilizer once a month.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 5/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 5/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Irritant sap
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Allow soil to dry out completely between waterings, especially during dormancy. Overwatering is the most common cause of rot. Water thoroughly when dry, ensuring good drainage.
Prune to maintain shape or remove dead or damaged stems. Use a clean, sharp knife. Allow cuts to callus over before watering to prevent rot. Pruning is best done in spring.
Propagate from stem cuttings taken during the spring or summer. Allow cuttings to callus for several days before planting in well-draining soil. Rooting is slow and requires warmth.
Repot every 2-3 years or when the plant outgrows its container. Use a gritty, fast-draining succulent or cactus mix. Repot in spring, handling the plant carefully to avoid damage.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Medusa’s Head (Euphorbia caput-medusae)
Where Medusa’s Head (Euphorbia caput-medusae) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Species | Euphorbia caput-medusae |
Similar in genus Euphorbia
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
