Euphorbia stapelioides ‘Variegated’ – Medusa Plant “Vara” (Small)

“Vara” is a small but spirited Medusa Plant, part of the variegated form of Euphorbia stapelioides. I’ve chosen to keep it safe in my collection because of its resilience and unique look. It’s fully self-reliant and drought-tolerant, content to simply grow and hang out without much demand. As long as it’s in a fast-draining soil, it can even handle Florida’s heavy rains. Personally, I mix in extra sand and perlite to help it thrive through the storms, like the rains we’ve had in September 2025. “Vara” may be compact, but it embodies strength and independence.

The Medusa Plant earns its name from its snake-like stems that coil outward in all directions, creating a living sculpture. The variegated form adds another layer of beauty, with subtle shifts in color running along its twisting arms. Native to Africa, Euphorbia stapelioides has adapted to arid climates by storing water in its thick stems, making it exceptionally hardy. Easy to propagate, tolerant of neglect, and boldly architectural, “Vara” reflects all the qualities that make Medusa Plants unforgettable.

🪴 Note About This Plant

• Common names: Medusa Plant, Snake Euphorbia.
• Drought-tolerant; thrives in sandy, well-draining soil (see more Euphorbias).
• Variegated stems twist outward like snakes, sculptural and expressive.

🪵 Log

• 2025-10: Adopted by Leslie