Blue Chalksticks ( Curio repens)is a succulent that has garner aid for its unique aesthetic and repose of care . Botanically , this plant is characterise by its powdery blue , cylindrical leave that grow in a slow , matting - like formation . These leaves , which can pass up to 2 column inch in length , are borne on prostrate staunch that tooth root at the node as they get in touch with the ground , allowing the flora to spread over time . The stem protrude off tumid but then lie in down , conduce to its sprawling habit . In summer to early fall , Blue Chalksticks can make small , creamy - white heyday in corymb - like clusters , total a subtle charm to its predominantly foliage - free-base appeal .
The history of Blue Chalksticks intertwines with its scientific naming and reclassification . primitively recognise asSenecio serpens , it was later renamed toCurio repens , reflect a taxonomic shift within the Asteraceae family . This name change also honors its creeping or crawl nature , as “ repens ” in Latin means “ creeping . ” Historically , succulent like Blue Chalksticks have been valued for their drought resistance and cosmetic qualities , puddle them popular in both indoor and outside options in Mediterranean - trend gardens and xeriscaping .
aboriginal to the Western Cape of South Africa , Blue Chalksticks thrives in the arid , rough environments of its homeland . This realm ’s clime , characterized by hot summer and mild , besotted winter , has regulate the plant life ’s adaption , such as its water system - storing leaves and tolerance for pitiful , well - drained grime . In its aboriginal habitat , Blue Chalksticks produce among other succulent and on bouldery rock outcrop , where its blue - green leaves contrast beautifully with the surrounding flora .
Blue Chalksticks can be moot perennial in its ideal climate , where it can survive for many days with minimal care . However , in regions where it ’s not aboriginal , it might be grown as an yearbook , especially if it ’s not overwintered or if the Robert Lee Frost is too harsh . With proper care in desirable environs , Blue Chalksticks can be a long - lasting accession to a garden or container aggregation , potentially live for over a decade under optimal conditions .
When it comes to USDA hardiness zones , Blue Chalksticks is best suited for zones 9b to 12 . In these zone , the plant can survive winter temperatures down to about 25 ° F ( -3.9 ° C ) , making it a suited choice for strong , rime - free areas . In cooler climate , it ’s often grown as a houseplant or in containers that can be moved indoors during the winter months to protect it from freeze temperatures . This adaptability to dissimilar growing conditions , from full sunshine to partial tint , as long as the filth is well - draining , seduce Blue Chalksticks a versatile choice for gardener looking to add together a speck of aristocratical to their landscape painting or interior spaces .
