329B-3-Senecio-hispidulus-var.-hispidulus-fl2-Marilyn-Gray.jpg

Senecio hispidulus

Rough Fireweed

Erect annual or shortly-lived perennial herb with sparsely coarsely-hairy to almost hairless stems.

Additional information

  • FamilyAsteraceae
  • StoreyLower storey
  • Size0.2-1.3 m high
  • Plant groupingHerbs & Groundcovers <1m
  • LeavesStalkless lance-shaped to egg-shaped mid green leaves, 4-14 cm x 5-35 mm, shallow to deeply toothed or deep lobes, bristly hairy on top, lightly curly-hairy below, basal lobes with 2 coarse teeth.
  • Flower colourPale yellow
  • Flowering timeSeptember to December
  • FlowersDense terminal bunches of small rayless daisy flowerheads. Bracts of flowerhead green, hairless or a few cobwebby hairs, black spot on tips.
  • Bird attractingNo
  • Butterfly attractingFood plant for caterpillars
  • Frog habitatNo
  • Growing conditionsMoist soils, colonising disturbed soils and along tracks in forests. Full sun, semi to dappled shade.
  • Garden useLeaves have interesting shapes. Provide a natural effect along paths.
  • Commercially availableNever
  • Conservation statusLocally common within its preferred growing conditions
  • Related speciesSenecio hispidulus var. dissectus has become Senecio bathurstianus. It occurs on Mt. Dandenong and is distinguished by the fern-like foliage and the drier habitat. Similar to Senecio glomeratus which is greyish from cobwebby hairs on all parts, leaves softly hairy, bracts at base of flowerheads also cobwebby.
Photographer/s: Marilyn Bull ©

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