Euphorbia flanaganii f. cristata – Cristate-Monstrose Form (WA Prohibited)

Euphorbia flanaganii f. cristata – Cristate-Monstrose Form is an exceptionally vigorous form of the crested Medusa’s Head Euphorbia. It develops a dense, irregular mass of compressed and repeatedly divided growing points, surrounded by numerous cylindrical branches.

Unlike the more structured Fan-Crested Form, this plant does not consistently produce broad, upright fans. Instead, its growth is compact, knobbly and highly proliferating, combining cristate, monstrose and partially reverted growth on the same plant.

This is possibly the fastest-growing Euphorbia form currently in our collection. Established plants can produce new branches rapidly during warm weather, eventually forming substantial, spreading specimens. Its vigorous and unpredictable growth gives every plant a different shape.

Understanding the Growth Form

Cristate growth occurs when the growing point becomes elongated rather than remaining as a single rounded tip. In this form, the abnormal growing points repeatedly divide and compress together, creating the distinctive brain-like central growth.

The cylindrical branches are reversions towards the species’ normal growth habit. These are a natural and expected feature of this particular form and are not an indication that the plant has lost its mutation.

Plants are selected from the available bench stock. Each will vary naturally in size, shape, crest development and the number of cylindrical branches present.

Care

• Light: Grow in bright light to morning sun. Introduce plants gradually to stronger sunlight to avoid scorching.
• Water: Water thoroughly during active growth, then allow the potting mix to dry before watering again. Keep considerably drier during cool weather.
• Media: Use a coarse, freely draining succulent mix.
• Temperature: Protect from frost, prolonged cold and cold, wet conditions.
• Airflow: Good airflow is important around the crowded growth.

Please note: Like other Euphorbias, this plant produces a milky latex sap when damaged. The sap can irritate skin and eyes. Handle carefully and keep away from children and pets.