Euphorbia decaryi aka Zombie Fingers

Euphorbia decaryi is a small succulent from southern Madagascar. It belongs to the spurge family, Euphorbiaceae. Its native habitat includes desert and dry shrubland. Kew classes it as a tuberous subshrub. It lives for many years and forms low mats. Rhizomes help it spread sideways across the ground. The species varies in form, which can complicate identification. Several garden forms have added to that confusion.

Its stems grow both above and below the soil. The lower parts look like roots and develop corky surfaces. The stems are slender, uneven, angled, and sometimes twisted. Small, scale-like leaves cover parts of them. Above ground, stems may stand up or creep along. Thick leaves gather in rosettes at the stem tips. Their narrow blades have raised veins and deeply rippled edges. Folds and wrinkles give the leaves a crisp look. Leaves show green and deep red tones. Summer or stress can turn them copper or bronze. Plants may keep their leaves or shed some of them.

The flower heads hang down like tiny bells. Each yellow cyathium sits among bracts that resemble petals. These bracts may be beige, tan, or pinkish. Short stalks hold the flower heads in small groups. Chicago Botanic Garden lists flowering from May through August. Its record also lists red, yellow, and green bloom colours. The hanging heads contrast with the dense, rippled leaves.

In cultivation, give this plant bright light without harsh summer sun. Chicago Botanic Garden also lists partial and full shade. It gives USDA hardiness zones 11–12 for the species. Use a loose growing mix that drains well. LLIFLE suggests mostly mineral material with little organic matter. The plant needs ample water during hot summer growth. Do not let its soil dry out fully in winter. Keep it warmer and wetter during active growth. Give it cooler, drier conditions while it rests. Too little water can hinder fresh root growth in spring.

A wide, shallow pot suits its spreading form. LLIFLE also describes its use in small bonsai pots. Tangled stems can build a dense mat within a few years. The leaves and creeping stems provide much of its appeal. LLIFLE regards it as easy to grow with suitable care. Its account recommends repotting every two to four years.