5-7cm Euphorbia inermis

Euphorbia inermis, commonly known as "Nine-Headed Dragon Euphorbia", is a fascinating species in the Euphorbiaceae family indigenous to the arid Karoo region of South Africa. Its most distinctive feature is its robust, woody caudex that grows into a thick, gnarled structure with age, developing intricate textures and contours. From this sturdy base emerge numerous long, slender stems that spread outward in a snake-like manner—often branching into multiple segments, giving rise to its "nine-headed dragon" common name. The stems are a bluish-green to gray-green color, with tiny, ephemeral leaves that appear briefly on new growth before dropping, emphasizing the plant's wild, sculptural silhouette.