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Ragwort

Senecio inaequidens · Asteraceae

The gardener's calendar

The right move for September

Ideal time to plant ragwort: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.

JFMAMJJASOND Planting

ID card

Foliage
Evergreen, linear and fleshy
Flowering
Spring and summer, yellow flowers in corymbs
Adult size
30 to 60 cm in height
Growth
Fast
Hardiness
Tender, from approximately 5 °C
Origin
South Africa
Soil type
Well-drained, poor to moderate

Care

Watering

Water moderately during the growing season, allowing the soil to dry between waterings. In winter or during dormancy, reduce watering considerably. Avoid standing water at all costs, which quickly causes rot in the fleshy roots.

Light exposure

Place the South African senecio in full sun to encourage generous flowering and compact growth. It also tolerates partial shade, but stems become leggy and flowering diminishes.

Soil and substrate

Use light, well-draining potting soil enriched with sand or gravel. This plant fears prolonged moisture and prefers a poor, mineral medium, similar to its natural semi-arid conditions.

Fertilizing

Apply a balanced fertilizer or one low in nitrogen once or twice in spring and early summer. The plant naturally tolerates poor soils; excess fertilizer promotes foliage at the expense of flowering.

Pruning and maintenance

Remove dead or misshapen stems in spring. Light pruning after flowering helps maintain a compact form and encourages branching. This plant naturally remains bushy and doesn't require drastic intervention.

Pests and diseases

Watch for mealybugs and mites indoors or in greenhouses. Root and fungal rots appear mainly with overwatering or insufficient drainage. Ensure good air circulation and respect watering intervals.

Did you know?

The South African senecio is one of the rare South African species that has successfully colonized Mediterranean and temperate regions, where it now grows in a naturalized state. Its fleshy leaves and vigorous growth make it an invasive plant in some ecosystems, yet it remains valuable in ornamental horticulture for its relative hardiness and elegant appearance.

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.