Dormancy
Please note that this species is dormant in summer and may have less or no leaves if purchased between November and February.
Where it grows
The natural form of Curio articulatus is widespread throughout the Cape provinces of South Africa, specifically the Western and Eastern Cape.
Special features
Curio articulatus (formerly known as Senecio articulatus) is a shrubby succulent with sausage-like stems. It is a blue-green colour with arrow-shaped leaves. It is also referred to as the variegated candle plant. The variegated form has white, pink or purple leaves mixed in with the normal blue-green ones, depending on the amount of light it receives. They lose their leaves in summer.
Care guide
This species prefers partial shade, as they tend to etiolate (stretch out) if given lots of shade. Their awesome colours will only be displayed if they are given enough light. Water well in late autumn to winter as it begins to cool down after summer, but make sure the soil dries in between waterings. Water only occasionally in summer to make sure the plants don’t wilt. Make sure to plant in a well draining soil mix that won’t let their roots sit in water for prolonged periods.
Growing season
Late autumn and winter.
Propagation
Cuttings.