Curio herreanus is part of the Asteraceae family (the Daisy family) and its native range is Namibia. Curio herreanus is noted for its unique, almost tear-shaped modified leaves.Their leaves are perfectly engineered to store water, minimize water consumption and to facilitate plant survival in dry climates. This plant needs light from above to maintain a full crown. The flowers of this plant have a faint smell of cinnamon.
It's important to not pour water directly on to the top of these plants unless you can provide adequate light and air circulation; they form a dense matting with shallow roots and this could lead to rotting.
Genus name comes from the Latin cūriōsus, meaning “careful” or “inquisitive.” The specific epithet honors Adolar Gottlieb Julius (Hans) Herre (1895-1979), explorer, horticulturist, and curator of Stellenbosch University Botanical Garden.
Pot: 12cm
Length: 17cm
Light: In its native environment this plant grows on the ground, forming a mat by crawling over and under other plants. The light here would still be far greater than the light in our homes. Position this plant in a very bright indirectly lit spot, this plant can also tolerate a few hours of direct sunlight. Too much light results in the leaves developing a red/purple flush.
Water: Allow the potting mix to dry out completely in between waterings;
Potting mix: A well draining mix composed of coco coir, perlite, grit and horticultural sand.
Fertilising: Feed every few waterings during the growing season. You can dilute fertiliser to half the recommended amount but never add more.
Temperature: Spring and summer 18-30˚C, autumn and winter 10-13˚C
Humidity: Average humidity; if the humidity is particularly high, good ventilation is key to prevent mildew and fungal disease.
Curio herreanus is toxic, keep out of reach of pets and children.