Some are large shrub varieties, but many are trailing plants used as spreading groundcovers or in hanging baskets.
There are also upright species.
Some are round, some are banana-shaped, and some stand upright.
The Spruce / Kara Riley
However, it is the foliage that interests most gardeners.
The best time to plant Senecio is in the early fall before the new growth period starts.
All Senecio species should be considered toxic to humans and animals.
The Spruce / Kara Riley
Established plants are extremely drought-tolerant and low-maintenance.
Soil
The plants aren’t particular aboutsoil pHand do fine in the neutral range (6.07.0).
More importantly, ensure the soil is well-drained and on the sandy side.
The Spruce / Kara Riley
For potted plants, use a fast-draining succulent or cactus soil mix.
Water
As succulents, these plants have excellent tolerance for drought.
For most types, allow the roots to dry out completely between waterings.
The Spruce / Kara Riley
Soaking in water will cause the roots and plants to turn mushy.
Temperature and Humidity
Most varieties thrive inUSDA Hardiness Zones9 to 12.
As with the majority of succulents, they’re heat-tolerant.
Photo by Katkami / Getty Images
Too much fertilizer can cause an abundance of leggy growth.
Types of Senecio
There are many dozens of succulent Senecio species.
To prevent floppiness in taller varieties, you might prune them back to where the stem is firm.
The Spruce / Kara Riley
Propagating Senecio
Rooting cuttings is the easiest and fastest way to propagate Senecio plants.
Senecio is rarely sold as seeds.
The need for repotting depends on the growth rate of the variety.
Blue Chalk PlantThe Spruce / Marie Iannotti
Overwintering
In colder climates, potted Senecio plants need to be brought indoors during the winter months.
If this happens, try treating withneem oilorinsecticidal soap.
It depends on the species.
They do but not in the winter.
Senecio are winter growers that go dormant in the summer.
Senecio species.Colorado State University.
Common Groundsel.Center for Invasive Species and Ecosystem Health.
