A spreading groundcover succulent of upright finger-like blue-grey leaves with a chalky bloom, forming a cool silvery carpet ideal for mass planting and erosion-prone slopes. Tough and water-wise.
At a glance
- Plant type: Succulent
- Mature size: 30 cm H × 60 cm W
- Aspect: full sun
- Water: very drought tolerant once established
- Frost: tender
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Blue Chalksticks
Botanically, Curio talinoides var. mandraliscae is a moderate-growing succulent in the Asteraceae family. It reaches around 30 cm tall and 60 cm wide at maturity, with evergreen and silver-grey foliage. White flowers appear in summer.
Where to grow Blue Chalksticks
Blue Chalksticks suits arid and semi-arid, Mediterranean and warm-temperate climates and grows best in full sun. It is frost tender, so protect it from hard frosts or grow it in a sheltered spot or pot. It also is a genuinely water-wise choice and tolerates salt-laden coastal winds.
Soil & planting
Blue Chalksticks does best in sandy and free-draining soil. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
Blue Chalksticks handles dry conditions well once established. A light spring feed is usually enough to maintain steady growth. Check moisture below the mulch during establishment and water thoroughly when needed rather than following a rigid schedule.
Pruning & care
Prune Blue Chalksticks after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Expect a low maintenance care workload once it is established.
Using Blue Chalksticks in the garden
Blue Chalksticks earns its place for a low lawn alternative, holding soil on banks and slopes and pots and courtyard containers. It is equally at home in the ground or a large pot on a balcony or courtyard.
Companion planting & design
For easier irrigation and care, group Blue Chalksticks with species that also favour very drought tolerant and arid and semi-arid climate. Leave enough room for the mature spread so neighbouring plants are not crowded out.
Good to know
Note that it is toxic to cats and dogs, so site it away from pets that chew.
Buying Blue Chalksticks
Plant Sale lists Blue Chalksticks as potted plants. Catalogue forms are planning guidance until the Plant Sale team confirms live availability.
