Water
Water regularly, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Reduce watering in cooler months when growth slows.
Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
Also known as Cape Senecio · Purple Groundsel · Purple Ragweed
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Senecio elegans is a vibrant, fast-growing annual or short-lived perennial, producing masses of daisy-like, magenta-purple flowers from spring to fall.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
High
75% intensity
Prefers full sun for best flowering, but can tolerate partial shade.
Moderate
50% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Allow topsoil to dry slightly between waterings.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Thrives in average room temperatures between 18-24°C. Protect from frost.
Outdoor
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer every 2-4 weeks during the growing season.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 2/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 2/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which are hepatotoxic. Can cause liver damage.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water regularly, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Reduce watering in cooler months when growth slows.
Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
Pinch back young plants to encourage bushier growth. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to promote more blooms and prevent self-seeding.
Trim back any leggy or overgrown stems in late summer or early autumn to maintain a tidy appearance.
Easily propagated from seeds sown in spring or early summer, or from stem cuttings taken in late spring. Cuttings root readily in moist, well-draining soil or water. Seeds germinate best with light and warmth.
Repot young plants annually in spring to provide fresh soil and more space for root growth. Mature plants can be repotted every 2-3 years.
Use a well-draining potting mix, such as a standard peat-based compost with added perlite.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Redpurple Ragwort (Senecio elegans)
Where Redpurple Ragwort (Senecio elegans) is found
Density
Tap map to explore
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Senecio |
| Species | Senecio elegans |
Similar in genus Senecio
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
