Senecio cineraria, Cineraria maritima, Jacobaea maritima

A small shrub that grows between two and five feet tall, Senecio cineraria is a plant native to Central America and is grown widely in USDA Zone 9-11. It thrives in full sun, as well as semi-shade, and needs moderate water--sufficient to keep its soil evenly moist. This plant features ornamental foliage in shades of grey, green, and silver with brilliant yellow and orange flowers that are attractive to butterflies and hummingbirds.

Growing and caring for your Senecio cineraria can be a bit of a challenge in a cold region. While the shrub can handle some dry weather, prolonged periods can cause the roots to die and the plant to develop a rust disease. To ensure success, you will need to water the soil deeply when it is dry, particularly until it is established, and keep it consistently moist. Mulching can help to retain moisture, but make sure to keep mulch away from where the stems meet the soil. Apply a balanced fertilizer in the early spring for maximum health and blooms.

With proper care, your Senecio cineraria will fill your garden or container with lush foliage and captivating blooms that bring with them the beauty of nature and the joy of their feathered and butterfly guests.

Senecio fulgens, Kleinia fulgens

Senecio fulgens, commonly known as Orange Thistle, is a small shrub native to KwaZulu-Natal, Mozambique and Zimbabwe. It grows to a height of 2-5ft and thrives in full sun and dry conditions. Its ornamental foliage and brilliant yellow and orange flowers make it a valued garden plant, and it also attracts butterflies and hummingbirds. The best time to sow seed is in autumn or winter, and it can successfully be grown in USDA zones 9-11.

When grown in a pot in colder areas, Senecio fulgens needs to be kept in a sunny spot and watered sparingly. For best results, choose a pot with drainage holes and use a well-draining soil mix. Water only when the surface of the soil feels dry to touch, as overwatering can cause root rot and other health issues. During the winter months, it may go dormant and lose its leaves. This is normal and no additional water is needed during this time.

Fertilizing can be done in the spring, using an all-purpose fertilizer. To encourage bushier growth, prune Senecio fulgens throughout the growing season. During the dormant winter period, it can be trimmed down to the desired shape.

Senecio fulgens is a stunning addition to any garden and is surprisingly easy to care for. By following the proper care and planting guidelines, you can have a beautiful shrub that not only provides vibrant colors throughout the season but also attracts wildlife.

Senecio kleiniiformis

Senecio macroglossus

An evergreen perennial plant native to South Africa, Senecio macroglossus (Flowering Ivy) is a vigorous and low-growing groundcover that, when given a support, can grow up to two feet in height. It is important to distinguish between the two distinct types of growth for this plant: those that grow on the ground and those that climb.

This perennial is a pleasant addition to any garden, featuring green, glossy leaves on long, trailing stems. In full sun it does best and in partial shade, it is also quite successful. Senecio macroglossus is not particularly fussy about water requirements and depends on the environment, generally preferring regular but light irrigation, although it can tolerate moderate water and occasional dry conditions when grown in pots.

Aside from its attractive foliage, the plant also boasts a dazzling display of yellow, orange daisy-like flowers which add a stunning splash of color to any garden. It typically flowers in the late spring/early summer, but can bloom throughout the year in tropical climates. It also makes a beautiful hanging basket.

When growing Senecio macroglossus in cold regions, it is important to pot it up and bring it indoors during the colder months to ensure it survives. The plant must be well-drained, so adding some extra drainage material to the pot is recommended. Gardening gloves are also a must, as some parts of the Senecio macroglossus can be irritating to the skin.

Its bright and vibrant look make the Senecio macroglossus an attractive addition to any garden: from balconies and patios to a more expansive outdoor space. With its bright yellow daisy-like flowers and glossy foliage, this charming plant can create a tropical look and feel to any outdoor area.

Senecio medley-woodii

Senecio medley-woodii is a small plant that grows up to 5 feet tall. It is adapted to subtropical to warm temperate climates and grows best in full sun. It also tolerates moderate water but can survive both wet and dry conditions. The leaves are yellow-green with white, velvety patches. The flowers are yellow or orange and bloom intermittently throughout the summer.

This plant can be grown in USDA Zones 9-11. In colder regions, it can be grown in a pot and brought inside during cold temperatures. Plant it in full sun to light shade in a well-drained soil and irrigate occasionally to very little. Pruning is not necessary but can be done to maintain the desired shape. This plant is fairly low-maintenance and makes for an excellent choice for landscapes and gardens in warmer climates.