Blue Chalksticks

Blue Chalksticks (Curio repens) is a low, creeping succulent with fleshy, silvery blue-green leaves. Its dense, mat-like growth makes it useful as a groundcover in warm, well-drained sites or as a compact houseplant ([NC State Extension](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/curio-repens/common-name/blue-chalk-sticks/), [Kew Plants of the World Online](https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:997629-1/general-information)). ## Size and Form The plant reaches about 6–8 inches tall and can spread 2–3 feet. Prostrate stems and a branching base create broad coverage, while the fleshy leaves give the plant its chalky blue appearance ([NC State Extension](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/curio-repens/common-name/blue-chalk-sticks/)). ## Site and Seasonal Interest Grow in full sun to part shade; partial shade is helpful in intense heat. Use gritty, sharply drained soil and let the mix dry between waterings. Tiny white flowers may appear in summer and continue into fall. NC State lists the species for USDA Zones 9b–12 ([NC State Extension](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/curio-repens/common-name/blue-chalk-sticks/)). ## Maintenance Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot. Protect it from freezing temperatures and prune or divide spreading stems if they grow beyond the intended area. NC State also advises keeping the plant away from children and pets ([NC State Extension](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/curio-repens/common-name/blue-chalk-sticks/)).