Euphorbia flanaganii aka Medusa's Head

Euphorbia flanaganii, also known as Transkei medusa's head or Medusa Plant, is a succulent perennial belonging to the Euphorbiaceae family. Native to South Africa's arid climate, this evergreen plant has a unique appearance characterized by snake-like green cylindrical stems that radiate from a partially underground swollen stem or caudex. These stems can grow up to 20cm (8in) in length and are adorned with narrow, lance-shaped leaves that are shed as the stems age. During summer, short-stemmed, yellow-green floral bracts with reddish buds emerge from the center of the caudex. New plantlets are also produced at the tips of older stems, eventually dropping to the ground to form new plants. Recent research suggests that Euphorbia flanaganii has been around for 10 million years, evolving slowly in its natural environment. Despite its medicinal and decorative uses, the population of Medusa Plant is declining due to climate change. This plant can be easily identified by its dark green cylindrical branches, reaching lengths of up to 40 cm (15.8 inches). Its needle-like, thin leaves are inconspicuous, while the bright yellow-green flowers typically appear on the central branches during late summer or early fall. The stem of Euphorbia flanaganii is tuberous and inflated, with a portion of it underground, where it forms long and thin roots. It is important to note that the sap of this plant is poisonous and can cause skin irritation.