Origin
Senecio eurycephalus Torr. & Gray ex Gray var. lewisrosei (J.T. Howell) T.M. Barkl. is a subspecies of the Senecio eurycephalus Torr. & Gray ex Gray plant, which is native to western North America including California, Oregon, and Washington.
Common Names
The common names for Senecio eurycephalus Torr. & Gray ex Gray var. lewisrosei (J.T. Howell) T.M. Barkl. include Lewis's silver crown, Lewis's senecio, and Lewis rose's ragwort.
Uses
Senecio eurycephalus Torr. & Gray ex Gray var. lewisrosei (J.T. Howell) T.M. Barkl. is primarily used for ornamental purposes due to its beautiful, silver-gray foliage and yellow flowers that bloom in the summer. It can be planted in rock gardens, borders, or containers as a low maintenance and drought-tolerant plant. However, caution should be exercised as the plant contains toxic compounds that can cause harm if ingested by humans or animals.
General Appearance
Senecio eurycephalus Torr. & Gray ex Gray var. lewisrosei (J.T. Howell) T.M. Barkl. is a perennial plant that grows up to 2 feet tall and 2 feet wide. It has a woody stem and thick, silver-gray leaves that are oblong-lanceolate and deeply lobed. The plant produces yellow flowers that bloom in the summer and are arranged in clusters. The flowers have a diameter of about 1 inch and are composed of both disc and ray florets. The plant generally prefers to grow in well-draining soil and full sun.
Light Conditions
The plant Senecio eurycephalus Torr. & Gray ex Gray var. lewisrosei (J.T. Howell) T.M. Barkl. usually thrives well in full sun to partial shade. So, it’s essential to provide them with ample sunlight for their proper growth. However, during the hottest hours of the day, it’s better to provide some shade to protect the plant from excessive heat stress that might damage its growth.
Temperature Requirements
The plant grows well in cooler temperatures within its habitat. Generally, it thrives well in regions with temperatures ranging from 0°C to 30°C. However, during the winter season, the plant’s dormancy period occurs, and it can tolerate moderate frost depending on the growing conditions. So, it’s crucial to maintain a temperature that falls near the optimal range to ensure the plant's healthy growth.
Soil Requirements
The plant Senecio eurycephalus Torr. & Gray ex Gray var. lewisrosei (J.T. Howell) T.M. Barkl. usually prefers a well-draining and porous soil enriched with organic matter. The ideal pH range for the plant is mildly acidic to moderately alkaline, i.e., 6.5 to 8.5. Soil that’s too wet or too dry can hinder the plant’s growth and cause root rot and other fungal diseases. Therefore, it's essential to keep the soil moist, but not wet, throughout the growing season.
Cultivation methods
Senecio eurycephalus Torr. & Gray ex Gray var. lewisrosei (J.T. Howell) T.M. Barkl. is a drought-tolerant succulent that thrives in mild or cool climates. It is an excellent plant for beginners because it is easy to grow, tolerant of a variety of light, and soil conditions.
It can be grown both indoor and outdoor. Indoors, it needs a bright spot with at least 6 hours of sunlight daily. Outdoors, a partially shaded area with good ventilation is ideal.
Watering needs
Senecio eurycephalus var. lewisrosei requires less water than most plants. Overwatering may lead to root rot and other fungal infections, so ensure to let the soil dry out completely before watering again. Water only when the top ½ inch of the soil is dry to the touch.
In winter, the plant may become dormant, and watering should be reduced to once a month.
Fertilization
Senecio eurycephalus var. lewisrosei is a light feeder, and fertilization is not necessary. However, for optimum growth, a balanced fertilizer with N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 can be applied once every three months during the growing season (spring and summer).
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Senecio eurycephalus var. lewisrosei. However, it can be done to reduce the plant's size or to control its growth.
Dead or yellowing leaves should be removed by snipping them off as close to the stem as possible. If the plant becomes too leggy, you can cut the stem, remove the leaves, and plant the stem cutting in well-draining soil to propagate the plant.
Propagation of Senecio eurycephalus Torr. & Gray ex Gray var. lewisrosei (J.T. Howell) T.M. Barkl.
Senecio eurycephalus Torr. & Gray ex Gray var. lewisrosei (J.T. Howell) T.M. Barkl. is a plant that can be propagated using different methods. Below are some of the ways this plant can be propagated:
Seed Propagation
One way to propagate Senecio eurycephalus Torr. & Gray ex Gray var. lewisrosei (J.T. Howell) T.M. Barkl. is through seed propagation. Seeds can be collected from the plant once they are mature. It is important to ensure that the seeds are fully matured to ensure successful germination.
Seeds are usually planted in a seed-starting mix. The seedlings will then need to be transplanted to individual pots or directly into the garden once they have grown enough to handle.
Division Propagation
Another method that can be used to propagate Senecio eurycephalus Torr. & Gray ex Gray var. lewisrosei (J.T. Howell) T.M. Barkl. is through division. This method involves separating a mature plant into smaller sections, each with their roots and stems.
Divisions should be made using a sharp and sterile knife or garden shears to avoid injuring the plant. These new plants should then be planted in separate pots or directly into the garden.
Cuttings Propagation
Senecio eurycephalus Torr. & Gray ex Gray var. lewisrosei (J.T. Howell) T.M. Barkl. can also be propagated through cuttings. This method begins with taking stem cuttings from the plant and rooting them in water or a rooting hormone.
The cuttings should be taken from a mature and healthy plant, and then be stored in a moist environment. Once the cuttings have developed roots, they can be transplanted into their new pots or directly into the garden.
Disease Management
Senecio eurycephalus Torr. & Gray ex Gray var. lewisrosei (J.T. Howell) T.M. Barkl. is relatively tolerant to diseases. However, the following diseases may affect the plant:
- Crown Gall: This bacterial disease can cause tumors on the plant stems and roots. It can be managed by planting disease-free plants and avoiding mechanical injury to the plant.
- Root Rot: This fungal disease thrives in wet soil and can affect the roots of the plant, leading to stunted growth and wilting. It can be managed by ensuring proper drainage and avoiding overwatering the plant.
Pest Management
Senecio eurycephalus Torr. & Gray ex Gray var. lewisrosei (J.T. Howell) T.M. Barkl. may also be susceptible to pest infestations. The following pests may affect the plant:
- Aphids: These small insects feed on the sap of the plant, causing distortion and stunted growth. They can be managed by spraying the plant with a strong stream of water or using insecticidal soap.
- Spider Mites: These tiny pests also feed on the sap of the plant, causing yellowing and wilting leaves. They can be managed by using a miticide or by ensuring proper humidity levels around the plant.
- Cutworms: These caterpillars feed on the stems of the plant, causing wilting and death. They can be managed by placing physical barriers around the plant stems or using insecticides.
