Cushion Ragwort (Senecio cephalophorus)

Cushion Ragwort

Senecio cephalophorus

Tight cushion of silvery foliage glows like alpine frost. Low-growing succulent perennial; common name: Cushion Ragwort.

Full sun
1–2/week
Moderate
🌱

Plant Needs

☀️
Sunlight Full sun to partial sun; tolerates cool alpine light conditions; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates
💧
Watering Water thoroughly when the top 2 cm of soil is dry; avoid waterlogging, especially in winter
🌡️
Temperature Tolerates light frost; prefers cool to temperate temperatures; avoid prolonged heat above 25°C
🔍

Characteristics

  • Leaf: Silvery-grey, linear to spatulate, densely packed in tight rosettes
  • Flower: Bright yellow daisy-like composite heads, borne on short stalks above foliage
  • Stem: Short, woody, branching to form compact, mounded cushions
🛠️

Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil slightly moist; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot

Fertilization

Diluted balanced liquid feed once every 4 weeks. Use a half-strength, low-nitrogen fertilizer to support compact growth

Eggshell powder topdress:Grind dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle lightly on soil surface to improve drainage and boost calcium levels; avoid direct contact with foliage
Pruning
  • Trim spent flower stalks after blooming to maintain a tidy cushion shape
  • Remove dead, brown foliage in early spring to encourage new rosette growth
  • Thin overcrowded rosettes to improve airflow and reduce risk of fungal rot
⚠️

Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Toxic; ingestion may cause vomiting, diarrhea, liver failure, and lethargy

Humans: Contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids; ingestion may cause liver damage, abdominal pain, and nausea

📖

Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental rock garden plant; container specimen for alpine-themed displays