Senecio doronicum
Senecio doronicum · Asteraceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant senecio doronicum: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Family
- Asteraceae
- Type
- Perennial herbaceous plant
- Mature size
- 60 to 100 cm in height
- Flowering
- April to June, golden yellow flowers
- Foliage
- Deciduous, medium green
- Hardiness
- Down to -15 °C
- Origin
- Central and southern Europe
- Growth
- Moderate to fast
Care
Watering
Keep the soil moist but well-draining, especially during spring growth. Water regularly without allowing water to stagnate. In summer, space out watering if rainfall is sufficient. Reduce watering considerably in autumn and winter.
Light exposure
Place your golden senecio in full sun or partial shade. Direct sunlight promotes more abundant flowering. Regions with very hot summers will benefit from light afternoon shade.
Soil
Prefer rich, well-draining and slightly moist soil. Adding potting soil or compost at planting time improves soil structure. Avoid overly compact or too dry soils.
Pruning and cleanup
Remove faded flowers to prolong flowering. After flowering, cut stems back to 10-15 cm from the ground to encourage a compact form. In late autumn, eliminate dried parts.
Fertilizer
Apply balanced fertilizer in spring when growth begins. Monthly applications of diluted, low-nitrogen liquid fertilizer during flowering can support flower production. Avoid excess nitrogen which would promote foliage at the expense of flowers.
Diseases and pests
This plant is generally hardy against diseases. Watch for aphids in very mild climates. Powdery mildew can appear in excessive humidity and poor air circulation; improve air flow. Poor drainage can lead to root rot.
Did you know?
The golden senecio owes its scientific name to the genus Senecio (from the Latin 'senex', meaning old man), as its fruits are crowned with white hairs resembling grey hair. This alpine plant was once used in traditional European herbalism, notably by herbalists for its supposed tonic properties.
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.
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.