Curio radicans 'Blue Pickle' – Fast-Growing Succulent Vine with Blue-Green Pickle-Shaped Leaves


Curio radicans 'Blue Pickle', also circulated in horticulture under the synonym Senecio radicans and commonly called Blue Pickle Vine or Fishhooks Senecio, is a vigorous trailing succulent perfect for hanging baskets and shelves. Its cascading stems carry distinctive, pickle-shaped leaves in a cool blue-green tone, each coated in a fine epicuticular wax that softens light reflection. Leaf “windows” – translucent stripes running along the length – allow sunlight to reach the inner tissues, an adaptation typical of drought-tolerant succulents.
 
● Key Features of Curio radicans 'Blue Pickle'


Leaf form: Slender, cylindrical, pickle-like leaves with translucent windows
Colour: Blue-green hue accentuated by a powdery farina coating
Growth style: Trailing stems that can extend over 1 m in length
Flowering: Produces small white discoid flower heads, lightly scented
Decorative use: Excellent for hanging pots, window boxes, and vertical displays
 
● Natural Habitat and Background


The wild form Curio radicans is native to South Africa, where it creeps and trails over rocky slopes in semi-arid habitats. Its succulent foliage and waxy coating help conserve water in intense sun and drought. In cultivation, 'Blue Pickle' offers a more ornamental presentation, prized for its glaucous tones and fast growth indoors.
 
● How to Grow and Maintain Curio radicans 'Blue Pickle'


Light: Prefers bright, indirect light; tolerates some direct morning sun
Watering: Follow a soak-and-dry cycle; let soil dry fully before watering again
Substrate: Use a well-draining cactus/succulent mix with added grit
Temperature: Ideal range is 18 – 28 °C; protect from frost
Humidity: Tolerates low indoor humidity; avoid over-misting
Feeding: Fertilize monthly during spring – summer with diluted cactus feed
 
● Seasonal Rhythm and Growth


This cultivar grows most actively in spring and summer, producing long trailing shoots that quickly fill a pot or basket. In cooler months, growth slows, and watering should be reduced to prevent root rot. The waxy coating helps the plant cope with dry indoor conditions year-round.
 
● Common Problems and Prevention


Wrinkled leaves: Usually from underwatering; water thoroughly then drain
Mushy stems: Caused by overwatering or poor drainage
Pale colour: May occur in insufficient light; move closer to a window
Pests: Watch for mealybugs or aphids on soft new growth
 
● Additional Notes


While its bead-like leaves resemble edible grapes or pickles, all parts of Curio radicans are toxic if ingested. Keep out of reach of children and pets. With proper care, this plant creates a cascading curtain of blue-green foliage that instantly adds dimension to interiors.
 
● Etymology of Curio radicans


The genus Curio was separated from Senecio in 1997 by P.V. Heath to include species with elongated succulent leaves and discoid flower heads. The name is derived from Latin curiosus, meaning “curious,” likely in reference to their unusual morphology. The species epithet radicans means “rooting” or “clinging,” describing the way stems take root when they touch soil.
 
● Bring Curio radicans 'Blue Pickle' Into Your Space


Add Curio radicans 'Blue Pickle' to your collection for a cascading succulent that thrives in hanging pots and delivers year-round visual impact. Order now and enjoy its unique blue-green foliage in your home.