Senecio cineraria 'Silver Dust' (Senecio)

History

Senecio cineraria is native to the western and central Mediterranean region where it grows in arid, scrublike habitats.

The name 'Senecio' is derived from the Greek 'Senex' meaning 'an old man'. This refers to the beard-like 'pappus' of hair on the seed.

Planting

Dig a hole larger than the root ball, loosen the soil at the bottom and  place the plant so that the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface, backfill, firm in carefully around the roots and water in well. This will ensure good soil and root contact, and give the plant a good start.

Propagation

Seeds (March to May) and stem cuttings.

Cultivation

Grows best in well drained, light, even sandy soils in full sun.  It is drought tolerant but should be watered during prolonged dry periods. This is a half hardy plant and may need some protection during winter months from frost.

Aftercare

These plants do not require any special feeding or care and are quite happy on poorer soils. However to encourage more and stronger foliage flowers should be prevented or removed when they appear.

Pests

Caterpillars

Diseases

Rust

Other information

This plant is predominantly grown for its foliage and provides an excellent backdrop for cut flowers.

Height/Spread

This plant produces a mound of finely divided silvery white foliage. The young leaves of 'Silver Dust' are slightly lobed, a bit like oak leaves, but as the plants mature, they become deeply cut, much paler in colour and are covered in a silvery grey fleece. Although this Senecio is grown predominantly for its foliage it does flower from June to July, producing a golden yellow flat topped cluster about 2.5cm across.

Annual care

June

To encourage more and stronger foliage flowers should be prevented or removed when they appear.