Groundsel
Senecio vulgaris · Asteraceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant groundsel: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous, medium green
- Flowering
- Spring to autumn (small yellow flowers)
- Adult size
- 30 to 60 cm in height
- Growth
- Fast
- Hardiness
- Low hardiness, frost-sensitive
- Origin
- Europe and Mediterranean basin
- Soil type
- Dry to moderately moist, well-drained soil
Care
Watering
Water moderately during dry periods, without excess. Common groundsel tolerates drought well once established. Reduce watering in winter or during cold temperatures.
Light Exposure
Place this plant in full sun or partial shade for vigorous growth. Sufficient light promotes better flowering and a compact structure.
Pruning
Remove spent flowers regularly to extend flowering. Light pruning in spring rejuvenates the plant and prevents untidy spreading.
Soil
Prefer well-drained, poor to average soil. Rich soil promotes overly rapid growth at the expense of flowering. Avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing
A light application of balanced fertilizer at the start of the season is sufficient. Over-fertilized plants produce mostly foliage at the expense of flowers.
Diseases and Pests
Watch for powdery mildew in humid or hot weather. Excess moisture can promote rot. Good air circulation and watering at the base limit these issues.
Did you know?
Common groundsel is a pioneer colonizer plant, very common in disturbed land and rubble. For several centuries, it has invaded gardens and crops in Europe, making it an agricultural pest long before the modern era. Its name "Senecio" comes from the Latin "senex" (old man), referring to its silvery-white fluffy fruits resembling white hair.
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
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- WormwoodArtemisia absinthium
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.