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Description
Senecio Integerrimus, commonly known as the wholeleaf ragwort, is a flowering plant that belongs to the Senecio genus. It is a perennial herbaceous plant that grows up to 4 feet tall and 2 feet wide. The plant produces yellow flowers that bloom from June to September. It is native to North America, and it can be found in different habitats such as meadows, prairies, and open woods.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Senecio |
Appearance
The Senecio Integerrimus has a smooth stem that is green or reddish-brown in color. The leaves are alternate, simple, and entire, with a length of 4-10 inches and a width of 1-3 inches. The leaves are dark green and have a smooth texture. The flowers are yellow in color and have a diameter of around 1 inch. The plant produces numerous flower heads that are arranged in a flat-topped cluster. The fruit of the plant is an achene that is approximately 1/8 inch long.
Care Guide
The Senecio Integerrimus is an easy-to-grow plant that requires minimal care. Here are some care tips for this plant:
- Water: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is moist. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season.
- Fertilization: The plant does not require much fertilizer. Apply a balanced fertilizer once during the growing season.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic. Amend the soil with compost before planting.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant can grow in hardiness zones 4 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Senecio Integerrimus is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew and rust. To prevent these diseases, avoid overhead watering and provide good air circulation. In terms of pests, the plant can be attacked by aphids, spider mites, and thrips. These pests can be controlled by using insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
The Senecio Integerrimus is native to North America and can be found in different habitats such as meadows, prairies, and open woods. The plant prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate dry conditions. It can grow in hardiness zones 4 to 8.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Senecio Integerrimus poisonous?
A: Yes, the plant is toxic to both humans and animals. It contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids that can cause liver damage if ingested in large amounts.
Q: Can Senecio Integerrimus be grown indoors?
A: The plant can be grown indoors, but it requires bright light and well-drained soil.
Q: How often should I fertilize Senecio Integerrimus?
A: The plant does not require much fertilizer. Apply a balanced fertilizer once during the growing season.
Q: How do I propagate Senecio Integerrimus?
A: The plant can be propagated by division or by taking stem cuttings. Stem cuttings should be taken in the spring or fall and should be inserted into moist potting soil.
Related Plants
- Senecio Aureus
- Senecio Barbatus
- Senecio Cineraria
- Senecio Jacobaea
References
- “Senecio integerrimus.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=284599
- “Senecio integerrimus.” USDA Plants Database. https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=SEIN
- “Wholeleaf ragwort.” Fine Gardening. https://www.finegardening.com/plant/wholeleaf-ragwort-senecio-integerrimus
