Contents
Description
Senecio Esleri, also known as Blue Chalksticks, is a succulent plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to South Africa and is a popular plant for indoor and outdoor gardening due to its attractive blue-green leaves and low maintenance requirements.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Spermatophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Senecio |
Appearance
Senecio Esleri has unique blue-green leaves that have a cylindrical shape and can grow up to 6 inches long. The leaves are fleshy and have a chalky texture, which is why the plant is commonly known as “Blue Chalksticks.” The plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and has small white flowers that bloom in the summer.
Care Guide
To care for Senecio Esleri, it is important to keep the plant in a well-draining soil mix and avoid overwatering. The plant prefers bright, indirect sunlight and can tolerate some shade. It is hardy in USDA zones 9-11 and should be protected from frost. Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Common Pests & Diseases
Senecio Esleri is generally a pest-resistant plant, but it can be susceptible to mealybugs and spider mites. These pests can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it is important to let the soil dry out between watering to prevent this.
Habitat
Senecio Esleri is native to the Cape Province of South Africa and is commonly found in rocky areas and on hillsides. It is a drought-tolerant plant and can survive in arid conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Senecio Esleri be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, Senecio Esleri can be propagated from stem cuttings. The cuttings should be allowed to dry for a few days before planting in well-draining soil.
Q: Does Senecio Esleri need a lot of sunlight?
A: Senecio Esleri prefers bright, indirect sunlight but can tolerate some shade.
Q: Is Senecio Esleri a poisonous plant?
A: Yes, Senecio Esleri is toxic to both humans and pets if ingested.
Q: How often should Senecio Esleri be fertilized?
A: Senecio Esleri should be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Related Plants
- Senecio serpens
- Senecio mandraliscae
- Senecio rowleyanus
- Senecio radicans
References
- “Senecio serpens: Blue Chalksticks.” San Marcos Growers. Accessed 20 Sept. 2021. https://www.smgrowers.com/products/plants/plantdisplay.asp?plant_id=3540
- “Senecio serpens.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 20 Sept. 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c219
- “Senecio.” World of Succulents. Accessed 20 Sept. 2021. https://worldofsucculents.com/senecio/
