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Description:
Senecio Ilicifolius, commonly known as the Thorny-Leaved Groundsel, is an evergreen shrub native to South Africa. It belongs to the Asteraceae family and is a popular ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes. The foliage of this plant is spiky, with dark green glossy leaves that are oval-shaped and have serrated edges. The plant produces bright yellow flowers that bloom in clusters during the summer season.
Taxonomic Information:
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Senecio |
Appearance:
The Thorny-Leaved Groundsel is a medium-sized shrub that can grow up to 2 meters tall. Its foliage consists of spiky, thorny leaves that are 4-5 cm long and 2-3 cm wide. The leaves are dark green and glossy, with serrated edges that are covered in small white hairs. The plant produces bright yellow flowers that are 2-3 cm in diameter and bloom in clusters during the summer season. The flowers are followed by small, fluffy seeds that are dispersed by the wind.
Care Guide:
The Thorny-Leaved Groundsel is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy and loamy soils, as long as they are well-draining. The plant thrives in full sun to partial shade and requires moderate watering. It is best to water the plant when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch. Fertilization is not necessary, but a balanced fertilizer can be applied during the growing season. The plant is hardy in USDA hardiness zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases:
The Thorny-Leaved Groundsel is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Spider mites and aphids can occasionally infest the plant, but they can be easily controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat:
The Thorny-Leaved Groundsel is native to South Africa and can be found growing in a variety of habitats, including coastal cliffs, rocky outcrops, and sandy soils. It is a drought-tolerant plant and can survive in areas with low rainfall.
Question and Answer:
Q: Is the Thorny-Leaved Groundsel toxic?
A: Yes, the plant contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which can be toxic if ingested.
Q: Can the Thorny-Leaved Groundsel be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as the container has good drainage.
Q: How often should I fertilize the Thorny-Leaved Groundsel?
A: Fertilization is not necessary, but a balanced fertilizer can be applied during the growing season if desired.
Q: Can the Thorny-Leaved Groundsel be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, the plant can be propagated from stem cuttings taken during the summer season.
Related Plants:
- Senecio crassissimus
- Senecio serpens
- Senecio haworthii
- Senecio mandraliscae
References:
- “Senecio Ilicifolius.” PlantZAfrica, South African National Biodiversity Institute, www.plantzafrica.com/plantqrs/senecioilic.htm.
- “Senecio Ilicifolius.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b581.
- “Senecio Ilicifolius.” Gardenia, www.gardenia.net/plant/senecio-ilicifolius-thorny-leaved-groundsel.
