Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Senecio ovatus, Wood Ragwort, is a perennial with bright yellow daisy-like flowers and a vigorous, upright growth habit, ideal for naturalistic plantings.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Partial Shade
50% intensity
Prefers dappled sunlight or partial shade, especially in hot climates. Protect from intense afternoon sun.
Moderate
50% intensity
Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings. Avoid waterlogged conditions.
Well-drained, fertile soil
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Thrives in temperatures between 15-25°C. Can tolerate cooler temperatures in winter but protect from frost.
Low
25% intensity
Feed sparingly during the growing season. Over-fertilization can be detrimental.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 5/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 5/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which can be toxic to the liver.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Avoid waterlogging, as this can lead to root rot. Reduce watering frequency during winter dormancy.
Ensure good drainage in the pot to prevent excess moisture accumulation, especially in cooler conditions.
Prune after flowering to remove spent flower stalks and maintain a tidy shape. Cut back leggy stems to encourage bushier growth.
Remove any dead or damaged foliage at any time of year to improve air circulation and plant health. Heavy pruning can be done in early spring.
Propagate by softwood cuttings taken in spring or semi-hardwood cuttings in summer. Root cuttings in a well-draining compost mix, keeping them moist and in a warm, bright location.
Division of established clumps in spring is also an effective method for propagation.
Repot every 2-3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound, preferably in early spring before new growth begins. Use a good quality, well-draining potting mix.
Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one to avoid overwatering issues.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Wood Ragwort (Senecio ovatus)
Where Wood Ragwort (Senecio ovatus) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Senecio |
| Species | Senecio ovatus |
Similar in genus Senecio
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
