Also known as Flanagan's Euphorbia · Medusa's Head · Sea Milkball
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Euphorbia flanaganii is a succulent with snake-like stems and star-shaped yellow flowers. Native to South Africa, it thrives in arid conditions.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Prefers bright, indirect light.
75% intensity
Can tolerate some direct sun, but avoid intense afternoon heat.
Allow soil to dry out completely between waterings.
25% intensity
Reduce watering in winter.
Well-draining cactus or succulent mix
50% intensity
Average room temperatures are suitable.
50% intensity
Protect from frost; minimum 10°C in winter.
Feed sparingly during the growing season.
25% intensity
Use a diluted, balanced liquid fertilizer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 5/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 5/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
All parts of the plant contain a milky white sap that is toxic and can cause irritation to skin and eyes. Ingestion can cause gastrointestinal upset.
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. Overwatering is a common cause of root rot. Reduce watering significantly in winter dormancy.
Use well-draining soil and a pot with drainage holes to prevent waterlogging, ensuring the plant receives moisture only when the substrate is dry to the touch.
Pruning is minimal and mainly for shaping or removing damaged parts. Use a sharp, sterile knife or shears. The milky white sap can be irritating, so wear gloves and eye protection.
Prune in spring to encourage new growth and maintain a desired form.
Easily propagated from stem cuttings. Allow cuttings to callus over for a few days before planting in well-draining soil. Rooting is typically successful in warm conditions with bright, indirect light.
Patience is key as new growth can be slow initially.
Repot every 2-3 years or when the plant outgrows its container. Use a gritty, well-draining cactus or succulent mix. Choose a pot only slightly larger than the current one.
Repot in spring before the active growing season begins to minimize transplant shock.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Euphorbia Flanaganii (Euphorbia flanaganii)
Where Euphorbia Flanaganii (Euphorbia flanaganii) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Euphorbiaceae |
| Genus | Euphorbia |
| Species | Euphorbia flanaganii |
Similar in genus Euphorbia
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
