Botanical Name: Senecio mandraliscae
Common Name: Blue chalk sticks
Type of Plant: dicot: succulent
Character evergreen
 
Habit of Growth:
Overall Shape a low, somewhat shrubby plant with succulent leaves and branches spreading outward with upright tips to form a loose, open groundcover
Height 6" to 18"
Spread to 2'
Growth Rate moderate
 
Environment:
Exposure outdoor full sun to partial shade in hot inland areas
Soil prefers well-drained, sandy soils
Hardiness some frost (zones 12, 13, 16, 17, 21-24)
 
Morphology:
Leaves very distinctive, cylindrical, blue-gray, fleshy, alternate or whorled, 3-4" long, curved and somewhat flattened on upper surface; leaves taper to a wedge-like point
Flowers creamy white, small heads with disk flowers only, held well above foliage – summer months
Fruit small achenes
 
Propagation:
stem cuttings throughout the year
 
Usage:
a very striking groundcover or border, valued for its blue-gray foliage and open growth habit; contrasts well with foliage color of other plants; best in warm, subtropical theme gardens, and containers
 
Landscape Care:
Watering little needed after establishment; prefers occasional deep soaking
Fertilizing none required
Pruning pinch or head back regularly to encourage density
Pests/Diseases root rot in poorly drained soils
Special Conditions/Other
 
Origin: South Africa
Family: Asteraceae

Notes:
 
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