Sticky Ragwort

senecio viscosus

Also known as: ["Sticky Groundsel","Sticky Senecio"]

Family: Asteraceae Genus: Senecio Category: Herbs & Weeds

Overview

A herbaceous annual plant with sticky, glandular hairs covering its stems and leaves, producing small yellow flower heads typical of the genus Senecio.

Benefits & Perks

["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Asterales
Family: Asteraceae
Genus: Senecio
Botanical Name: Senecio viscosus

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Herbs & Weeds
  • Suitable Location: rock garden, border, or container in a sunny spot
  • Suitable For:
    Collectors & Enthusiasts Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: moderate
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining mix of cactus soil with added perlite or sand.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: low
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: Every 2–3 months or as needed to control size and shape.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if overgrown.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to direct sunlight; protect from intense midday sun; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil or drainage issues.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
easy

easy

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid placing near south-facing windows in summer.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering; water early in the day to prevent fungal issues.

Soil

well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy garden soil; top-dress with fresh soil annually.

Temperature

Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but avoid extreme cold or heat.

Avoid drafty areas; maintain consistent room temperature; use a thermometer to monitor conditions.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter

Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings in spring or early summer.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in rooting hormone.
  4. Plant in moist medium.
  5. Keep warm and humid.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain 70–75°F (21–24°C) and high humidity.

Medium

Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus soil.

Hormone

Optional but recommended for faster rooting.

Timeline

Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain consistent moisture.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back stems or use clean cuts to remove unwanted growth.

Pruning Plan

Remove leggy growth to encourage bushier form; prune after flowering to maintain shape.

Tools

Pruning shears, sharp scissors, disinfectant.

Checklist

Use clean tools; prune during active growth; remove dead or damaged stems; shape as desired.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before the active growing season begins.

Pot Size

One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter); ensure good drainage.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water lightly.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil health.

Checklist

Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; trim roots if crowded; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture before watering; water thoroughly; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water deeply at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure excess water is removed to prevent waterlogging; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to direct water to the base of the plant, avoiding wetting the leaves.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, leaf drop, or yellowing in cold; scorching or stunted growth in excessive heat.

Cold Stress

Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and increases susceptibility to root rot.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid watering until temperatures rise.

Hot Stress

Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow due to water stress.

Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid overwatering.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellow leaves in Senecio viscosus may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations such as mealybugs, which disrupt nutrient uptake and photosynthesis.

Wilting in Senecio viscosus can be caused by water stress, either from overwatering leading to root rot or underwatering causing dehydration, both of which impair the plant's ability to transport water.

Leaf spots on Senecio viscosus may be caused by fungal or bacterial infections, leading to unsightly discoloration, reduced photosynthesis, and potential leaf drop if the infection spreads.

Rotting in Senecio viscosus is often associated with overwatering or poor drainage, leading to root or stem rot, which can cause the plant to decay and die if not addressed promptly.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Toxic

Senecio viscosus is toxic to cats due to its pyrrolizidine alkaloid content, which can cause severe liver toxicity and failure. Cats are particularly sensitive to these compounds.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting depression anorexia jaundice liver failure
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves stems roots
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Ensure cats cannot access the plant. If ingestion is suspected, seek veterinary care without delay.
Dogs
Toxic

The pyrrolizidine alkaloids in Senecio viscosus are toxic to dogs, causing liver damage and potential failure. Chronic ingestion can lead to severe health complications.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting lethargy loss of appetite jaundice liver failure
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves stems roots
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep plants out of reach of dogs. If ingestion occurs, contact a veterinarian immediately.
Humans
Toxic

Senecio viscosus contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which are hepatotoxic and can cause severe liver damage upon ingestion. Chronic exposure may lead to cirrhosis or liver failure.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting abdominal pain jaundice liver damage
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves stems roots
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid ingestion. Keep away from children and food preparation areas. Seek medical attention immediately if poisoning is suspected.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Senecio viscosus toxic to pets?

A: Yes, it is toxic to both dogs and cats.

Q: Does this plant require much care?

A: No, it is low maintenance and relatively easy to grow.

Q: What are the distinguishing features of Senecio viscosus?

A: It has sticky, glandular hairs on its stems and leaves, and produces small yellow flower heads.

Quick Reference
Family: Asteraceae
Care: easy
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["collectors/enthusiasts","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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