Family: Asteraceae

Origin, Description & Uses
Curio talinoides var. mandraliscae (blue finger) is a low-growing, trailing succulent native to coastal regions of South Africa. It is easily recognized by its distinctive blue-gray, finger-like leaves that grow densely along sprawling stems, forming attractive mats over time. This plant is widely used in ornamental horticulture for its striking color and texture, especially in rock gardens, dry landscapes, container plantings, and as a drought-tolerant groundcover in warm climates.

Risks & Threats
This species is not known to be naturalized in Hawaiʻi and is generally considered low risk due to its slow growth and preference for well-managed, dry landscape conditions. It does not typically spread aggressively or displace native vegetation. However, as with many ornamental succulents, it can persist and spread vegetatively in favorable conditions if discarded in natural areas, so responsible cultivation and disposal are recommended to prevent any potential localized escape.

High Risk Traits:

• Repeated introductions outside native range
  
• Congeneric weed
  
• Tolerates wide range of soil types (if well-drained)
  
• Produces viable, wind-dispersed seeds
  
• Intentionally spread as popular ornamental ground cover

Low Risk Traits:

• No evidence of naturalization in wild
  
• Not listed as any type of weed
  
• Lacks spines, thorns, or burrs
  
• Fire-resistant (low fire hazard)
  
• Not shade-tolerant (requires full sun)
  
• No evidence of vegetative spread in natural settings
  
• No evidence of unintentional dispersal (water, birds, animals, produce)