Senecio Macrocephalus, also known as the giant senecio, is a perennial succulent plant that belongs to the family Asteraceae. The plant is native to the high altitude regions of East Africa and is an eye-catching addition to any garden or indoor space. In this article, we will provide a detailed guide on Senecio Macrocephalus, including its taxonomic information, appearance, care guide, common pests and diseases, habitat, related plants, and references.
Contents
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Senecio |
Appearance
Senecio Macrocephalus is a large, succulent plant that can grow up to 6 feet tall and 3 feet wide. The leaves are thick and fleshy, with a bluish-green color that can turn purplish in direct sunlight. The leaves are also covered in fine white hairs, giving them a soft, velvety texture. The flowers are yellow and bloom at the end of long, branching stems in the summer and fall months. The plant’s overall appearance is similar to that of a small tree, with a single trunk and many branches.
Care Guide
Senecio Macrocephalus is a relatively easy plant to care for, but it does require some specific conditions to thrive.
Water
The plant requires moderate watering, with the soil being allowed to dry out slightly between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it is important to avoid keeping the soil too wet.
Fertilization
The plant benefits from fertilization once a month during the growing season, using a balanced fertilizer at half strength.
Soil
Senecio Macrocephalus prefers well-draining soil, such as a cactus or succulent mix. The soil should be kept slightly dry to prevent root rot.
Sunlight
The plant requires bright, indirect sunlight to grow properly. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves and cause damage to the plant.
Hardiness Zones
Senecio Macrocephalus is hardy in USDA zones 9-11 and prefers temperatures between 50-80°F.
Common Pests & Diseases
Senecio Macrocephalus is relatively pest and disease resistant, but it can still be affected by a few common issues.
Pests
The plant can be affected by mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. These can be treated with a neem oil or insecticidal soap spray.
Diseases
The plant can be affected by root rot if overwatered or kept in soil that doesn’t drain properly. This can be prevented by using well-draining soil and allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Habitat
Senecio Macrocephalus is native to the high altitude regions of East Africa, specifically Kenya and Tanzania. The plant is found growing in rocky, well-draining soil at elevations of 6,000 to 10,000 feet. It is a hardy plant that can withstand extreme temperatures and drought conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Senecio Macrocephalus toxic?
A: Yes, the plant is toxic if ingested and can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and in severe cases, liver damage.
Q: Can Senecio Macrocephalus be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown indoors as long as it receives bright, indirect sunlight and is placed in a well-draining soil mix.
Q: How often should I water Senecio Macrocephalus?
A: The plant should be watered moderately, with the soil being allowed to dry out slightly between waterings.
Q: How tall can Senecio Macrocephalus grow?
A: The plant can grow up to 6 feet tall and 3 feet wide, making it an impressive addition to any garden or indoor space.
Related Plants
- Senecio cineraria
- Senecio rowleyanus
- Senecio serpens
- Senecio mandraliscae
References
- “Senecio Macrocephalus.” PlantZAfrica, South African National Biodiversity Institute, 2021, www.plantzafrica.com/plantqrs/seneciomacroceph.htm.
- “Senecio Macrocephalus.” World of Succulents, 2021, worldofsucculents.com/senecio-macrocephalus-giant-senecio.
- “Senecio Macrocephalus.” Mountain Crest Gardens, 2021, mountaincrestgardens.com/senecio-macrocephalus-giant-senecio.
