Euphorbia Caput-Medusae (you-phor-bi-ya ca-put me-dus-sa) is a unique succulent plant native to South Africa.
While the Euphorbia genus contains many exciting species, the Caput-Medusae is the most fascinating. The species name Caput-Medusae references the famous character from Greek mythology, Medusa.
Medusa was known to have living serpents as hair and that whoever looked into her eyes would turn to stone.
Like the mythological character, the plant has snake-like stems that emerge from a center caudex or rootstock.
In its native habitat of South Africa, the Medusa plant grows in rocky or sandy terrain near the coast.
This plant can be grown as a groundcover in a suitable climate but is most commonly a houseplant.
Some synonyms of the Medusa plant include:
- Euphorbia caput-medusae var. geminata Aiton
- Euphorbia commelinii DC.
- Euphorbia fructuspini Mill.
- Euphorbia medusae panz.
- Euphorbia parvimamma Boiss.
Euphorbia Caput-Medusae was introduced in Europe in the 1700s and was one of the first plants described by the famous Swedish botanist Carl Linnaeus.
Euphorbia Caput-Medusae also goes by several common household names, including:
- Medusa’s head plant
- Medusa Plant
- Euphorbia medusa
- Medusa succulent
However, it’s a good idea to keep this plant outdoors if you have curious children or animals, as it produces a toxic milky sap.
Quick Facts On Euphorbia Caput-Medusae
- Family: Euphorbiaceae
- Light: Morning light with afternoon shade
- Temperature: 70° degrees Fahrenheit
- Water: Water monthly during the growing season
- Fertilizer: Half-strength water-soluble fertilizer
- Propagation: Division
- Common Problems: Mealybugs, deformed side shoots
Euphorbia Caput-Medusae Care
What Does The Medusa’s Head Plant Look Like, And How Big Does It Grow?
Like the mythological character Medusa, the Euphorbia caput-medusae has snake-like gray-green textured stems that emerge from a center caudex or rootstock.
The plant typically grows from 1′ to 2′ feet tall, with the rootball roughly 8″ inches wide.
The Medusa’s Head plant is compact despite its height, but other plants should not overshadow its unique appearance.
When Does The Medusa’s Head Plant Flower? Are The Flowers Fragrant?
Euphorbia caput-medusae is a unique succulent that produces small yellow flowers in the spring. They tend to grow in clusters on top of the plant.
While the flowers have a sweet scent, the fragrance of Medusa’s head plant is only noticeable when the plant is in full bloom.
What Are The Lighting Needs And Temperature Requirements?
The Medusa-like plant enjoys warm and sunny environments. However, they cannot handle the intensity of the afternoon sun burning through a glass window.
Therefore, if you keep it indoors, it’s a good idea to place it away from the window where it can still receive decent light.
The Euphorbia caput-medusae plant is a little bit particular about temperatures, so many gardeners tend to keep it as a houseplant.
However, the ideal temperature during the summer is around 70° degrees Fahrenheit, so room temperature is perfect.
In addition, the Medusa’s head plant does best in winter temperatures of about 60° degrees Fahrenheit, so if you live in a colder climate, you need to bring it indoors during the colder months.
How and When To Water and Fertilize The Medusa’s Head Plant?
The Euphorbia caput-medusae does not require much water to grow successfully. Therefore, in the hottest months of the summer, you only need to water your succulents monthly to encourage growth. Although watering it more often might be tempting, overwatering your plant can be harmful.
When fall arrives, reduce watering even more, and cease watering once winter begins.
Although the plant does not need a lot of water, it’s essential to give it a monthly feeding with a water-soluble fertilizer mixed to half strength during the summertime to promote and encourage new growth.
What Is The Best Soil For Euphorbia Caput Medusae Plant, And When Should You Transplant?
Like many plants susceptible to overwatering, the Euphorbia caput-medusae plant thrives in well-draining soil.
If planted outdoors, they do well with a layer of brick and charcoal pieces, with sandy loam on top.
A layer of crushed rock at the bottom of the soil is a good idea if you keep this Medusa succulent as a houseplant.
This rock layer will allow for better drainage so the plant isn’t overwatered.
Because Medusa’s head plant is a slow-grower, annual repotting is unnecessary. However, you can repot it when the plant shows signs of overgrowing the pot.
Does the Euphorbia Caput-Medusae Need Special Grooming Or Maintenance?
Euphorbia caput-medusae is extremely low-maintenance and does not require any grooming.
If the plant has access to the right temperature and sunlight and isn’t overwatered, it will do very well in a beginner’s care.
How To Propagate Medusa’s Head Plant?
Medusa’s head plant is as effortless to propagate as it is to maintain.
To propagate by division, follow the steps below:
- Using clean pruning shears or a knife, carefully cut off a side shoot.
- Place the side shoot in a pot with well-draining soil.
- Keep indoors with access to bright sun and room temperature.
- After a few days, the plant will begin to root.
Take care of your new Medusa’s Head like an established plant.
Medusa Succulent Pests And Diseases
The Medusa Succulent is typically resistant to pests and diseases but may get an occasional mealy bug attack.
You’ll know if you have a mealy bug infestation if you see cotton-like clusters at the base of the stems.
To get rid of the mealy bugs, dip a cotton ball or swab in alcohol and dab it on the infested areas.
Other issues are usually due to insufficient lighting, such as long, leggy growth. If you notice this leggy growth, move the plant to a sunnier location.
Although the Medusa Succulent plant is not usually affected by infections, one particular virus can cause the side shoots to form incorrectly and curl up.
Unfortunately, if this virus afflicts the plant, you cannot do much to save it.
Suggested Euphorbia Medusa Uses
Medusa’s Head can live for many years with proper care and attention.
Because of its low maintenance needs, easy propagation, and hardiness, the plant is a favorite for succulent collectors.
Its unique appearance can boost the overall aesthetic of any room. While you can place it alone, it also looks lovely among other cacti and succulents.
This succulent is a fascinating addition to an outdoor garden or a well-draining pot indoors.