Senecio quadridentatus
Senecio quadridentatus · Asteraceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant senecio quadridentatus: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Common name
- Four-toothed Groundsel
- Family
- Asteraceae
- Form
- Herbaceous
- Flowering
- Spring to summer (yellow flowers)
- Adult size
- 30 to 60 cm in height
- Foliage
- Deciduous to semi-evergreen
- Hardiness
- Moderate, temperate to Mediterranean zones
- Origin
- Mediterranean regions and North Africa
Care
Exposure
Install Senecio quadridentatus in full sun for generous flowering and compact growth. Partial shade is tolerated but may reduce flowering. Avoid dense shade which weakens the plant.
Watering
Water regularly in spring and summer, keeping the soil slightly moist but never waterlogged. Reduce watering in autumn and winter. This plant enjoys a moderately dry atmosphere between waterings.
Soil and drainage
Cultivate this herbaceous plant in well-draining soil, rich in organic matter. Slightly acidic to neutral soil suits it perfectly. Enrich the substrate with compost at planting to encourage establishment.
Fertilizing
Apply balanced fertilizer once or twice a month during the growing period (spring-summer). Reduce applications in autumn. Light fertilizer is sufficient; avoid excess nitrogen which would promote foliage at the expense of flowering.
Pruning and maintenance
Pinch young stems in spring to encourage bushy growth. Remove spent flowers regularly to extend blooming. In late winter, cut the plant back to one-third its height to revitalize it.
Pests and diseases
Watch for spider mites in dry conditions and whiteflies. Powdery mildew may appear in humid, poorly ventilated conditions. Maintain good air circulation and intervene quickly if infestation occurs.
Did you know?
The Senecio genus groups more than 1,200 species distributed worldwide, making it one of the largest families of flowering plants. Senecio quadridentatus, native to the Mediterranean basin, owes its epithet to its characteristic leaves with four small distinctive teeth that differentiate it from its congeners.
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.