Overview
Senecio cannabifolius Less. is a species of flowering plant in the family Asteraceae. It is native to South America and is commonly found in Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Paraguay, and Uruguay. It is known by several common names, including “laurelillo”, “hierba del cancer” or “zabumba”.
Description
The plant is a small herb, reaching a height of about 20-50cm. It has thin, green, and elongated leaves, resembling those of the Cannabis plant, hence its species name “cannabifolius”. Its stem is also green, slender, and simple. The plant produces small white or yellow flowers in small clusters at the ends of the stems. The fruit is an achene, small and light brown.
Uses
Senecio cannabifolius is used in traditional medicine for the treatment of various illnesses. In Argentina, it is used to relieve pain and treat cancer. Its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties make it useful for treating joint and muscle pain, headaches, and menstrual cramps. It is also used as a diuretic and a purgative.
In addition to its medicinal uses, the plant is used as a natural insect repellent and as an ornamental plant due to its unique and attractive appearance.
Cautions
Although Senecio cannabifolius has medicinal benefits, it should be used with caution. It contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which can be toxic to the liver when ingested in large amounts. Pregnant women, nursing mothers, and people with liver or kidney diseases should avoid using this plant.
Light Requirements
Senecio cannabifolius Less. thrives in full sun to partial shade conditions. They prefer a location that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight every day. If grown indoors, it is best to place them near a window that provides bright, indirect light.
Temperature Requirements
The plant can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, from 10°C to 32°C (50°F to 90°F) during the day and 7°C to 18°C (45°F to 65°F) during the night. However, it is best to maintain indoor temperatures between 18°C to 24°C (65°F to 75°F) during the day and 10°C to 16°C (50°F to 60°F) during the night. It is important to protect the plant from extreme temperature fluctuations.
Soil Requirements
Senecio cannabifolius Less. thrives in well-draining, sandy, and loamy soil. The soil pH should be between 6.0 and 7.5. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged, as excessive moisture can lead to root rot. The plant does well in average indoor humidity, but if grown in dry indoor conditions, it is recommended to mist the plant occasionally or use a humidifier.
Cultivation Methods
Senecio cannabifolius Less. is a hardy plant that can withstand a range of conditions. It can be grown indoors or outdoors, and either as a potted plant or directly in the ground. The plant prefers sunny to semi-shaded areas and well-drained soil. When planting, ensure that the soil is slightly acidic, with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.0.
Watering Needs
Senecio cannabifolius Less. requires regular and consistent watering but ensure that the soil is not waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root rot and the death of the plant. The frequency of watering is affected by factors such as temperature, humidity, and soil type. In hot weather, the plant needs more water to remain hydrated, while in cold weather, it requires less water.
Fertilization
Regular fertilization is necessary for proper growth and flowering of Senecio cannabifolius Less. Fertilizers with a balanced NPK ratio, such as 10-10-10, are best suited for this plant. The application of fertilizer should be done every six to eight weeks, in the growing season. Always follow the instructions on the fertilizer packaging, to prevent overfeeding, which can harm the plant.
Pruning
Pruning helps to keep Senecio cannabifolius Less. healthy, attractive, and encourages lush growth. Regular pruning of the plant helps to control its size, shape and remove dead, yellowing, or diseased leaves. Pruning usually involves cutting the stem or branches of the plant with a sharp, clean pair of gardening scissors. Avoid excessive pruning as it can stunt the growth of the plant.
Propagation of Senecio Cannabifolius Less.
Senecio cannabifolius Less., commonly known as the German ivy, is a popular ornamental plant that can be propagated through various methods. Here are some of the most common propagation techniques:
Propagation through Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings are the most popular propagation method for Senecio cannabifolius. Softwood cuttings should be taken from the tips of healthy stems in spring or summer. Use a sharp knife or shears to make a clean cut just below a node. The cutting should be around 4-6 inches long. Remove the lower leaves from the cutting, leaving only a few leaves at the top. Place the cutting in a pot filled with well-draining soil and keep it moist.
Propagation through Division
Senecio cannabifolius can also be propagated through division during spring. Carefully remove the plant from its container and separate the root ball into sections. Each section should have some healthy shoots and roots. Replant each section in a pot filled with well-draining soil and keep it moist.
Propagation through Seeds
You can also propagate Senecio cannabifolius through seeds. Harvest the seeds when the plant has finished flowering and the seed heads have turned brown. Sow the seeds in a pot filled with well-draining soil and keep it moist. Germination can take up to three weeks, and the young plants should be transplanted into individual pots once they are large enough to handle.
Disease and Pest Management for Senecio cannabifolius Less.
Senecio cannabifolius Less. is a member of the Asteraceae family known for its ornamental value. However, like any other plant, it is susceptible to diseases and pests that can reduce its quality and yield. Proper disease and pest management practices are necessary to ensure a healthy plant growth and development.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that affect Senecio cannabifolius Less. is powdery mildew. This fungal disease is easily identified by the powdery white or grayish residue that accumulates on the plant's leaves and stems. To manage powdery mildew, remove and destroy infected parts of the plant and improve air circulation by spacing out plants. Use a fungicide labeled for powdery mildew control and maintain adequate soil moisture levels.
Another disease that commonly affects Senecio cannabifolius Less. is root and stem rot. The rot is often caused by waterlogged soil or fungal pathogens such as Pythium and Phytophthora. To manage root and stem rot, avoid overwatering, improve soil drainage, and increase soil aeration. Use fungicides with active ingredients labeled for rot disease control.
Common Pests
Senecio cannabifolius Less. is also susceptible to different pests such as aphids, spider mites, and thrips. These pests can suck sap, damage leaves, and cause plant yellowing and stunting. Control aphids and spider mites by blasting them off with water or by using insecticidal soaps or oils. Thrips can be managed by releasing natural predators such as lacewings or ladybirds or by using insecticides with active ingredients labeled for thrips control.
Caterpillars and slugs can also be a pest problem for Senecio cannabifolius Less. Caterpillars can be manually removed from the plant, while slugs can be trapped using baits containing iron phosphate or metaldehyde. Chemical insecticides are also available, but they can harm beneficial insects and pollinators.
Overall, proper plant management such as maintaining proper soil moisture levels, avoiding overfertilization, pruning, and removing dead leaves and stems, is crucial to prevent disease and pest infestation. Preventive measures such as crop rotation, using disease-free plants, and proper sanitation can also help maintain healthy plant growth.
