Senecio Scandens is a species of flowering plant in the Asteraceae family. It is native to South America and is commonly known as German Ivy, Parlor Ivy, or Cape Ivy. The plant is easy to grow and is often used as a trailing plant in hanging baskets or as a ground cover.
Contents
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Senecio |
Appearance
Senecio Scandens has small, rounded leaves that are dark green in color. The leaves are slightly succulent and have a glossy texture. The plant produces small, yellow, daisy-like flowers that bloom in the summer months. It can grow up to 3 feet in length and has a trailing habit.
Care Guide
Senecio Scandens is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. It requires moderate watering and should be allowed to dry out slightly between waterings. The plant prefers well-draining soil and should be fertilized once a month during the growing season. It can tolerate a wide range of sunlight conditions, but prefers bright, indirect light. Senecio Scandens is hardy in USDA zones 9-11, but can be grown as a houseplant in cooler climates.
Common Pests & Diseases
Senecio Scandens is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites and mealybugs. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it is important to allow the soil to dry out between waterings.
Habitat
Senecio Scandens is native to the Andes Mountains of South America, where it grows in rocky, well-drained soil. It can be found at elevations of up to 10,000 feet. The plant has also been introduced to other parts of the world and is now considered an invasive species in some areas.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Senecio Scandens be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, Senecio Scandens can be propagated from stem cuttings. Simply take a cutting from the plant, remove the lower leaves, and place it in well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist and the cutting should root within a few weeks.
Q: Is Senecio Scandens toxic to pets?
A: Yes, Senecio Scandens is toxic to pets if ingested. It contains chemicals that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and other symptoms. It is important to keep the plant out of reach of pets.
Q: How often should Senecio Scandens be fertilized?
A: Senecio Scandens should be fertilized once a month during the growing season (spring and summer). Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer and follow the instructions on the package.
Q: How can I control the size of my Senecio Scandens plant?
A: Senecio Scandens can be pruned to control its size and shape. Simply trim back the stems to the desired length. This will also encourage bushier growth.
Related Plants
- Senecio Mikanioides
- Senecio Rowleyanus
- Senecio Serpens
- Senecio Peregrinus
References
- “Senecio Scandens.” Missouri Botanical Garden. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a644.
- “Senecio Scandens.” Plant Care Today. https://plantcaretoday.com/senecio-scandens.html.
- “German Ivy (Senecio Scandens).” Gardening Know How. https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/german-ivy/german-ivy-senecio-scandens.htm.
