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Description
Senecio Solandri Var. Rufiglandulosus, commonly known as woolly senecio, is a succulent plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to New Zealand and can grow up to 50 cm tall. The plant has a thick, woody stem and gray-green leaves covered in fine white hairs that give it a woolly appearance. It produces yellow flowers in the summer months.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Senecio |
Appearance
The woolly senecio has thick, woody stems that can be up to 50 cm tall. Its leaves are gray-green in color and covered in fine white hairs, giving it a woolly appearance. The leaves are oblong or lanceolate in shape and can grow up to 10 cm long. The plant produces yellow flowers in the summer months that are small and daisy-like in appearance.
Care Guide
Woolly senecio is a relatively easy plant to care for. Here are some tips:
- Water: Water the plant thoroughly and then allow the soil to dry out before watering again. Avoid over-watering as this can cause root rot.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Use well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sunlight but can also tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Woolly senecio is hardy in zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Woolly senecio is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to mealybugs and spider mites. To prevent these pests, keep the plant clean and free of debris. If you notice any pests, use an insecticidal soap to control them.
Habitat
Woolly senecio is native to New Zealand and can be found growing in rocky places, on hillsides, and along coastal cliffs. It prefers well-draining soil and full sunlight.
Question and Answer
Q: Can woolly senecio be grown indoors?
A: Yes, woolly senecio can be grown indoors as long as it is placed in a location that receives plenty of sunlight.
Q: How often should I fertilize woolly senecio?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Can woolly senecio tolerate cold temperatures?
A: No, woolly senecio is not frost-tolerant and should be protected from freezing temperatures.
Q: How often should I water woolly senecio?
A: Water the plant thoroughly and then allow the soil to dry out before watering again. Avoid over-watering as this can cause root rot.
Related Plants
- Senecio cineraria
- Senecio mandraliscae
- Senecio rowleyanus
- Senecio serpens
References
- “Senecio Solandri var. Rufiglandulosus.” New Zealand Plant Conservation Network. nzpcn.org.nz
- “Senecio Solandri var. Rufiglandulosus.” Te Papa Tongarewa. collections.tepapa.govt.nz
- “Senecio Solandri var. Rufiglandulosus (Woolly Senecio).” World of Succulents. worldofsucculents.com
