Euphorbia obesa, commonly known as Baseball Plant, is an evergreen succulent native to the semi-arid regions and rocky outcrops of the Great Karoo in the Cape Provinces of South Africa. It is well-adapted to its native habitat, where it experiences hot, dry conditions. The plant typically measures between 6 cm and 15 cm in diameter, depending on its age, with young plants being spherical and maturing into a cylindrical shape. Euphorbia obesa stores water in its fleshy interior, allowing it to survive long periods of drought. Its green skin is adorned with horizontal bands that can vary in shade, and when exposed to direct sunlight, the plant may develop red and purple hues. It produces inconspicuous yellow flowers in the summer and fall, which are not particularly showy but add to its unique appearance.

The Baseball Plant is valued for its distinctive, globular form and minimal water needs, making it a popular choice for rock gardens, succulent collections, and as a houseplant. It thrives in full sun, requiring very low amounts of water, and prefers well-draining soils to prevent root rot. Due to its slow growth rate and compact size, it is an excellent plant for small spaces. However, gardeners should handle it with care, as its sap can be irritating to the skin and toxic if ingested. Euphorbia obesa is not known for being invasive, but it is listed on CITES Appendix II, indicating that it is a protected species in its native range due to over-collection and habitat loss.CC BY-SA 4.0