Contents
Description
Senecio Burchellii, also known as Burchell’s Senecio, is a shrub-like plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. Native to South America, this plant is often grown as an ornamental plant due to its attractive appearance and unique characteristics.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Senecio |
Appearance
The Senecio Burchellii plant has silver-green leaves that are elongated and slightly serrated. The leaves are covered in fine white hairs, which gives them a fuzzy texture. The plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide, producing clusters of small, yellow flowers at the end of each stem. The flowers bloom in the summer and fall, attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Care Guide
The Senecio Burchellii is a relatively easy plant to care for. Here are some tips:
- Water: Water the plant when the top inch of soil is dry, but don’t let it sit in water. Overwatering can cause root rot.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Plant the Senecio Burchellii in well-draining soil. A mixture of cactus soil and perlite works well.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers bright, indirect sunlight, but can also tolerate some direct sunlight.
- Hardiness Zones: The Senecio Burchellii is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Senecio Burchellii is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, overwatering can lead to root rot and fungal infections. Common pests include mealybugs and spider mites, which can be treated with insecticidal soap. To prevent pests and diseases, make sure the plant is planted in well-draining soil and not overwatered.
Habitat
The Senecio Burchellii is native to South America, where it grows in dry, rocky areas. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate drought conditions. It is often grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and containers.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Senecio Burchellii be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown indoors as long as it receives bright, indirect sunlight.Q: How often should I fertilize Senecio Burchellii?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.Q: What are the common pests of Senecio Burchellii?
A: Common pests include mealybugs and spider mites, which can be treated with insecticidal soap.Q: What is the hardiness zone for Senecio Burchellii?
A: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Related Plants
- Senecio serpens
- Senecio mandraliscae
- Senecio rowleyanus
- Senecio articulatus
References
- “Senecio burchellii.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 16 August 2021. <http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277846&isprofile=0&basic=sene&bt=1>
- “Senecio burchellii.” PlantZAfrica. Accessed 16 August 2021. <http://pza.sanbi.org/senecio-burchellii>
- “Senecio burchellii.” World of Succulents. Accessed 16 August 2021. <https://worldofsucculents.com/senecio-burchellii-burchells-senecio/>
