Scientific Name
Curio crassulifolius (DC.) P.V.Heath
Synonym(s)
Kleinia archeri, Senecio archeri, Senecio toxotis
Scientific Classification
Family: Asteraceae
Subfamily: Asteroideae
Tribe: Senecioneae
Subtribe: Senecioninae
Genus: Curio
Etymology
The specific epithet "archeri (ARCH-er-eye)" honors William Archer (1820-1874), an Australian architect, naturalist, grazier, politician, and member of the prominent Archer family.
Origin
Curio archeri is native to South Africa (Western Cape).
Description
Curio archeri, formerly known as Senecio archeri or Senecio toxotis, is a small succulent with usually flattened leaves concentrated near the top of erect to sprawling stems. The leaves are blue-green with a waxy coating and several translucent lines on each side of the leaf blade.
The flower heads are brush-like, white to yellowish, and appear on slender stalks in fall.
How to Grow and Care for Curio archeri
Light: Keep Curio plants in partial shade if outdoors, which is their preference in summer, and bright sunlight if indoors. They will grow in full shade but will become lank and leggy.
Soil: These plants prefer well-draining soil. For growing Curio indoors, using a container with at least one drainage hole at the bottom is essential.
Hardiness: Curio archeri can withstand temperatures as low as 30 to 50 °F (-1.1 to 10 °C), USDA hardiness zones 10a to 11b.
Watering: Curio plants are drought tolerant, but the soil should never be left dry for too long. They need some water during the growing season, but be careful not to leave the soil wet for prolonged periods.
Fertilizing: The members of this genus can take a bit more fertilizer than other succulents if you want them to grow fast.
Repotting: You do not need to repot Curio plants often. You can do it when the container becomes too small or shallow.
Propagation: These plants can be grown from seeds or cuttings.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Curio.
Toxicity of Curio archeri
Curio plants are toxic. Grow them with great care if you have children, pets, or livestock.
Links
- Back to genus Curio
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
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