Rough Groundsel
jacobaea erucifolia
Also known as: ["Rough Ragwort","Rough Senecio"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant with yellow flowers, often found in disturbed habitats.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Jacobaea |
| Botanical Name: | Jacobaea erucifolia |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: garden bed or border in temperate regions
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: moderate
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning every 2–3 months; heavy pruning annually in late winter or early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate to heavy, depending on desired shape and size.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from direct midday sun to avoid scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh light; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply to encourage root growth; avoid waterlogging; adjust frequency based on season and weather.
Soil
well-drained, moderately fertile soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of potting soil and perlite; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler temperatures but avoids frost.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from drafts; maintain moderate humidity.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize during active growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in hormone (optional).
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), indirect light, and warm temperatures (65–75°F).
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 3–6 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, propagation tray, humidity dome.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; avoid direct sunlight.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushiness; cut back stems to encourage branching.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead/damaged growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilized knife, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead/diseased parts; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots outgrow the pot; beneficial for growth and health.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone without wetting foliage. Allow excess water to drain completely to prevent fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water moderately during active growth (spring–summer), allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce frequency in fall–winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in cold; leaf scorch or drop in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop or dieback if exposed to freezing temperatures.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; use a heat mat if necessary.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow due to excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid over-fertilization.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring–summer; avoid fertilizing in fall–winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are also susceptible to the hepatotoxic effects of pyrrolizidine alkaloids found in Jacobaea erucifolia, which can lead to severe liver damage and failure.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe pyrrolizidine alkaloids in Jacobaea erucifolia are toxic to dogs, causing liver damage and potential failure with chronic ingestion.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicJacobaea erucifolia contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which are hepatotoxic and can cause liver damage upon ingestion. Chronic exposure may lead to severe liver fibrosis and even cirrhosis.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Jacobaea erucifolia toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Does Rough Groundsel attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: Is Jacobaea erucifolia considered a weed?
A: Yes, it is often classified as a weed due to its invasive nature.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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