Description
Curio talinoides, also known by its synonym Senecio mandraliscae, is a striking succulent native to South Africa. Commonly referred to as Narrow Chalksticks or Blue Fingers, it features slender, elongated, blue-grey leaves that resemble chalk sticks, growing upright in dense clusters. This plant forms a low, spreading mound, reaching heights of 60–90?cm and widths of 60–90?cm. In Perth, it thrives in full sun to part shade, making it ideal for garden beds, rockeries, or large containers. During summer (Bunuru), it may produce small, white flowers, though flowering is infrequent.
For optimal growth, plant Curio talinoides in sandy, well-draining soil amended with coarse sand or gravel to enhance drainage. Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings, as the plant is drought-tolerant and susceptible to root rot if overwatered. In Perth's climate, it requires minimal maintenance and is well-suited to xeriscaping. Prune occasionally to maintain shape and remove any leggy growth. Propagation is easily achieved through stem cuttings.
| Botanical Name | Curio talinoides (Syn. Senecio mandraliscae) |
| Common Name | Narrow Chalksticks, Blue Fingers |
| Cultivar | |
|
Classification |
Succulents and Cacti |
| PBR Name | |
| Origin | South Africa |
| Foliage | Evergreen |
| Height | 60 - 90 cm |
| Width | 60 - 90 cm |
| Light | Full sun to part shade |
| Soil | Sandy, well-draining soil with coarse sand or gravel |
| Water Requirement | Low; water only when soil is completely dry |
| Lifespan | Perennial |
| Flower Colour | White |
| Flower Time | Bunuru (Late Summer) |
| Toxicity | Toxic to humans and pets; contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids that can cause liver damage if ingested |
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