Woolly Senecio (Senecio scaposus)

Woolly Senecio

Senecio scaposus

Fuzzy silver leaves wrap around stems like soft armor, a compact desert beauty. Succulent perennial; common name: Spear Head Senecio.

Full sun
1/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full sun to partial sun for optimal silvery foliage color; tolerate bright indirect indoor light, avoid prolonged deep shade
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Watering Allow the soil to dry completely between waterings; reduce frequency significantly in winter to prevent root rot
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Temperature Thrives in 15–25℃; protect from frost below 5℃ to avoid leaf and stem damage
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Densely woolly silvery-white linear-lanceolate leaves arranged in basal rosettes
  • Flower: Bright yellow daisy-like composite blooms on slender, upright scapes
  • Stem: Short, woody basal stems; offsets form tight clumps over time
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Care Guide

Watering

Water thoroughly when soil is fully dry; avoid splashing water on fuzzy leaves to prevent rot

Fertilization

Diluted succulent fertilizer applied once monthly. Do not fertilize during winter dormancy to avoid stressing the plant

Eggshell powder topdressing:Grind thoroughly dried eggshells into a fine powder; sprinkle a thin layer on the soil surface to boost calcium levels and prevent root rot
Pruning
  • Remove dead or yellowing leaves at the base to maintain airflow and appearance
  • Trim spent flower scapes after blooming to conserve the plant's energy for new growth
  • Divide overcrowded clumps in early spring to propagate and reduce competition for resources
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

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

Humans: Contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids; ingestion may cause abdominal pain, nausea, and long-term liver damage with repeated exposure

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental succulent for container gardens, rock gardens, and indoor succulent displays