Hoary Ragwort
Jacobaea erucifolia · Asteraceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant hoary ragwort: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Flowering
- Summer to fall (July to October)
- Adult size
- 24 to 40 inches tall
- Growth
- Fast
- Hardiness
- Hardy down to 14°F (-10°C)
- Origin
- Southwestern Mediterranean Europe
- Soil type
- Well-drained, tolerating poor soils
Care
Exposure
Plant the rocket-leafed senecio in full sun for generous flowering. It tolerates partial shade as well but will produce fewer flowers. A south or west-facing exposure is ideal for optimal development.
Watering
Water regularly during the growing season (spring and summer), allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Reduce watering in fall and winter. Avoid excess moisture, which promotes fungal diseases.
Soil and Planting
This senecio prefers well-drained soil, even poor or chalky soil. Enrich the soil moderately at planting time with compost. Efficient drainage is crucial to prevent root rot.
Fertilizer
Apply balanced fertilizer once or twice during the growing season. Moderate feeding is sufficient; excess nitrogen promotes foliage at the expense of flowering.
Pruning and Maintenance
Pinch back young stems in spring to encourage a bushy habit. Remove spent flowers regularly to extend blooming. Cut back the plant in late winter or early spring to rejuvenate the clump.
Diseases and Pests
Senecio is generally hardy. Watch for powdery mildew in case of excessive moisture or warm temperatures. Slugs may attack young shoots; treat preventatively if necessary.
Did you know?
The rocket-leafed senecio owes its scientific name 'erucifolia' to the resemblance of its basal leaves to those of rocket (Eruca). This Mediterranean plant thrives in the rocky, sunny soils of garrigues, where it plays an important role in pollinator nutrition during summer.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- SunflowerHelianthus annuus
- YarrowAchillea millefolium
- Ox-eye daisyLeucanthemum vulgare
- SneezewortAchillea ptarmica
- Canadian goldenrodSolidago canadensis
- WormwoodArtemisia absinthium
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.