South African ragwort (Senecio pterophorus)
Care, watering, light and tips for South African ragwort on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Asteraceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 10 days
- Light: Full sun
- Temperature: 0–35 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About South African ragwort
Senecio pterophorus, also known as winged senecio or winged ragwort, is a perennial shrub from the Asteraceae family, native to South Africa. It is characterized by its woody stems, lanceolate grey-green leaves, and a profusion of small yellow flowers that appear in clusters for much of the year. It is a robust, fast-growing plant, ideal for informal hedges, embankments, or as a background plant in low-maintenance gardens.
Native range
South Africa
Care tips
It prefers full sun to partial shade exposure and is very drought-tolerant once established, requiring moderate watering. It adapts to a wide range of soils, as long as they have good drainage, with poor and even sandy soils being suitable. A common mistake is overwatering, which can lead to root rot; it's best to let the substrate dry out completely between waterings. It tolerates pruning well to maintain its shape and control its size.
How to save a dying South African ragwort
- Warning signs
- Wilted, yellowing, or dry leaves. Soft, blackened stems. Soft, dark roots.
- First aid
- Remove damaged leaves and stems. Check roots. Repot in dry, well-draining soil. Water only when soil is completely dry.
- What kills it
- Overwatering. Senecio pterophorus is very sensitive to waterlogging, which quickly rots its roots.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if rot is not too advanced and healthy stems remain. Propagate cuttings if damage is severe.