Senecio vulgaris is commonly known as groundsel, old-man-in-the-spring, or ragwort. It is a flowering plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. This plant is native to Europe and can be found in many parts of the world, including North America, Asia, and Australia. Senecio vulgaris has been used for medicinal purposes for centuries, and it is also used as a food source for some animals.
Contents
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Senecio |
Appearance
Senecio vulgaris is an annual or biennial plant that grows up to 50 cm tall. The leaves are green, slightly lobed, and covered with fine hairs. The flowers are small, yellow, and arranged in clusters at the top of the stem. The plant blooms from April to October, depending on the climate.
Care Guide
Senecio vulgaris is an easy-to-grow plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips to help you take care of your Senecio vulgaris:
- Water: Senecio vulgaris prefers moist soil. Water your plant regularly, but do not overwater it.
- Fertilization: Senecio vulgaris does not require fertilization.
- Soil: Senecio vulgaris can grow in any well-draining soil.
- Sunlight: Senecio vulgaris prefers full sun, but it can also grow in partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Senecio vulgaris can grow in zones 3-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Senecio vulgaris is susceptible to a few pests and diseases:
- Aphids: Aphids can suck the sap from the leaves, causing them to wilt and yellow. Use insecticidal soap to get rid of aphids.
- Slugs and snails: Slugs and snails can eat holes in the leaves. Use slug bait to control them.
- Powdery mildew: Powdery mildew can cause white patches on the leaves. Use a fungicide to treat powdery mildew.
Habitat
Senecio vulgaris can be found in a variety of habitats, including fields, gardens, waste areas, and disturbed sites. It prefers moist soil and can grow in full sun or partial shade. Senecio vulgaris is a common weed in many parts of the world.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Senecio vulgaris poisonous?
A: Yes, Senecio vulgaris contains toxic alkaloids that can be harmful to humans and animals if ingested.
Q: Can Senecio vulgaris be used for medicinal purposes?
A: Yes, Senecio vulgaris has been used for medicinal purposes for centuries. It has been used to treat respiratory and digestive problems, as well as skin conditions.
Q: How can I control Senecio vulgaris in my garden?
A: You can control Senecio vulgaris in your garden by pulling it out by hand or using an herbicide that is labeled for use on this plant.
Q: Can Senecio vulgaris be used as a food source?
A: Yes, Senecio vulgaris is used as a food source for some animals, including rabbits and guinea pigs.
Related Plants
- Senecio jacobaea
- Senecio aureus
- Senecio rowleyanus
- Senecio cineraria
References
- https://www.fs.fed.us/wildflowers/plant-of-the-week/senecio_vulgaris.shtml
- https://www.cabi.org/isc/datasheet/117052
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5186567/
