Tiger Bush
senecio greyii
Also known as: ["Tiger Bush","Senecio greyii"]
Overview
A hardy, evergreen shrub with silvery-gray foliage and yellow daisy-like flowers, native to South Africa.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","deer resistant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","seasonal color change"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Senecio |
| Botanical Name: | Senecio greyii |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: indoor pot or outdoor garden in a sheltered spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–25°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 like cactus or succulent soil with added perlite or sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 6–12 months or after flowering.
- 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; tolerates some direct morning sun but prefers shade from harsh afternoon rays.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to avoid scorching; place in east-facing windows indoors; move outdoor plants to shaded areas during peak summer.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderateeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Allow soil to dry between waterings; water deeply to encourage deep roots; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or loamy soil 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 gravel for extra drainage.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but dislikes extreme heat or cold.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain moderate indoor temps.
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 soil or water.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 3–4 inch cutting.
- Let it callus for 1–2 days.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep warm and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (65–75°F), humid, and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix (e.g., cactus mix with perlite) or water.
Hormone
Optional but can speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining soil.
Quick Tips
Use sterile tools; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain consistent moisture.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Remove leggy growth to encourage bushier form; prune to maintain shape and remove dead/damaged stems.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruners or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead/damaged stems; shape as desired; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in a clean pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil freshness.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the soil level, ensuring even moisture without saturating the leaves; allow excess water to drain completely; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
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, coarse sand, or pumice to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in cold; scorching or leaf curl 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 cold drafts; reduce watering.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow due to excessive transpiration.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging; use shade cloth outdoors.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid foliage contact.
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
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are highly susceptible to pyrrolizidine alkaloid poisoning from Senecio greyii. Ingestion can cause severe liver damage, which may be irreversible and life-threatening.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Senecio greyii can lead to pyrrolizidine alkaloid poisoning, resulting in liver toxicity. Chronic exposure may cause progressive liver disease, which can be fatal.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicSenecio greyii contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which are hepatotoxic and can cause severe liver damage upon ingestion. These compounds accumulate in the liver over time, leading to chronic liver disease and potential failure.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Senecio greyii toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How often should I water Senecio greyii?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Q: Does Senecio greyii attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds with its flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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