Senecio mandraliscae
Senecio mandraliscae. Photo by Forest and Kim Starr

blue chalksticks

This plant grows well in the following regions:

  • NCNorth and Central Coast
  • SCSouth Coast
Map of regions (click to enlarge)
map of California regions

Description

Senecio serpens is a small ground-hugging succulent with 1-2 inch long blue green finger-like fleshy leaves and small white flowers that bloom in summer. It will root along the stems. Plant in full sun in well-drained soil. Great for a small scale groundcover. Similar to S. mandraliscae but far less vigorous, a bit tidier and lower. Native to the Cape of Good Hope in South Africa and first introduced into cultivation in 1710.

Senecio mandraliscae is also from South Africa, and grows 12-18 inches tall with 3-4 inch long fleshy leaves. It forms a dense mat with leaves angled upward from the ground. Plant in full sun and well-draining soil. Makes a great groundcover.

Both of these species are also fire resistant.

Sun needs:

  • Full sun
  • Partial sun

Water needs:

  • Low water
Water needs information from WUCOLS unless otherwise noted