Contents
Description
Senecio Bupleuroides, commonly known as the woolly senecio, is a perennial herbaceous plant that is native to South Africa. It belongs to the Asteraceae family and is known for its striking appearance, which makes it a popular choice among gardeners. The plant has silver-grey leaves that are covered in fine, dense hairs, giving it a woolly texture. It produces small yellow flowers that bloom in summer and autumn.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Senecio |
Appearance
The woolly senecio has silver-grey leaves that are covered in fine, dense hairs, which give it a woolly texture. The leaves are oval-shaped and can grow up to 5cm long and 2cm wide. The plant produces small yellow flowers that bloom in summer and autumn, on tall stems that can reach up to 1m. The flowers form in clusters at the ends of the stems and are about 8mm in diameter. The woolly senecio can grow up to 1.2m in height and 0.6m in width, making it a tall and bushy plant.
Care Guide
Water: The woolly senecio needs to be watered regularly during the growing season, but it should not be overwatered. The soil should be allowed to dry out slightly before watering again. In winter, the plant should be watered less frequently.
Fertilization: The woolly senecio should be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a general-purpose fertilizer. It is important not to over-fertilize the plant, as this can lead to excessive growth.
Soil: The woolly senecio prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can grow in a variety of soil types, but it does not tolerate heavy, waterlogged soil.
Sunlight: The woolly senecio thrives in full sun but can also grow in partial shade. It should be protected from strong, hot afternoon sun as this can scorch the leaves.
Hardiness Zones: The woolly senecio is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The woolly senecio is susceptible to mealybugs, spider mites, and aphids. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant is also prone to root rot if it is overwatered, so it is important to allow the soil to dry out between waterings.
Habitat
The woolly senecio is native to South Africa and is found growing on rocky outcrops and in grasslands. It is adapted to hot, dry conditions and can tolerate periods of drought.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the woolly senecio toxic?
A: Yes, the woolly senecio is toxic if ingested by humans or animals. It contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which can cause liver damage.
Q: How often should I prune my woolly senecio?
A: The woolly senecio does not require frequent pruning, but it can be trimmed back in spring to promote bushier growth.
Q: Can the woolly senecio be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the woolly senecio can be grown indoors in a bright, sunny location.
Q: How often should I repot my woolly senecio?
A: The woolly senecio should be repotted every 2-3 years, or when it outgrows its current pot.
Related Plants
- Senecio cineraria
- Senecio mandraliscae
- Senecio serpens
- Senecio rowleyanus
- Senecio radicans
References
- “Senecio bupleuroides (Woolly Senecio).” World of Flowering Plants, worldoffloweringplants.com/senecio-bupleuroides-woolly-senecio/.
- “Senecio Bupleuroides.” PlantZAfrica, www.plantzafrica.com/plantqrs/senecbupleu.htm.
- “Woolly Senecio (Senecio bupleuroides).” Gardenia, www.gardenia.net/plant/senecio-bupleuroides-woolly-senecio.
