Overview:
Senecio gabonicus Oliv. & Hiern is a succulent plant species that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to many African countries.
Common Names:
Senecio gabonicus Oliv. & Hiern is commonly known as ‘Senecio keniensis’, ‘Keniensis Senecio’ and ‘African daisy’.
Appearance:
The plant has a striking appearance with a spherical shape and bluish-green leaves. The leaves are densely packed along the stems, giving it a full and lush appearance. The leaves are oval with a slightly pointed end and have a prominent mid-vein. The plant can grow up to 1 meter in height. It produces a bright orange flower that can brighten up any garden.
Uses and Benefits:
Senecio gabonicus Oliv. & Hiern is mainly used for ornamental purposes. It is a fantastic addition to outdoor gardens, balconies, and patios. It is also often used in floral arrangements for the bright pop of color it provides. The flowers of the plant attract butterflies, adding a beautiful appeal to the garden. Additionally, the plant is reported to have medicinal properties. The sap of the plant is used as a remedy for eye infections in some parts of Africa. However, it is important to note that the plant should be used with caution as it can be toxic if ingested.
Light Requirements
The plantSenecio gabonicus Oliv. & Hiern prefers bright, indirect light or partial shade. It should be kept away from harsh, direct sunlight which can cause the leaves to burn. It is ideal to place the plant near a window that faces east or west, to provide it with the appropriate amount of light.
Temperature Requirements
Seneico gabonicusOliv. & Hiern prefers warm temperatures. It grows best under temperatures ranging from 18°C to 27°C. The plant can still survive in colder temperatures provided that it does not fall below 10°C or above 35°C which can cause the leaves to wilt or discolor.
Soil Requirements
Senecio gabonicus Oliv. & Hiern requires well-draining soil. A combination of peat moss, sand and loam soil will provide the plant with adequate nutrients. The soil should be kept moist, but not too wet as this can cause the roots to rot. A pH level of around 6.0 to 7.5 is ideal for this plant.
Cultivation Method
Senecio gabonicus Oliv. & Hiern is a perennial plant that grows well in warm climates. When planting, ensure to provide well-draining soil and adequate space for the plant to grow. This plant requires full to partial sunlight and can be planted in garden beds or containers.
Watering Needs
Senecio gabonicus Oliv. & Hiern prefers moderate watering levels. Ensure to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering may cause root rot, which can lead to the death of the plant. A general rule of thumb is to water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
Fertilization
Senecio gabonicus Oliv. & Hiern requires occasional fertilization. Use a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Fertilize the plant in spring and summer when it is actively growing. Avoid fertilizing during the plant's dormant season.
Pruning
Senecio gabonicus Oliv. & Hiern requires minimal pruning. Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased foliage as soon as it appears. Pinch back the plant's stem tips to encourage bushier growth. Pruning may also help the plant maintain its desired shape and size.
Propagation of Senecio gabonicus Oliv. & Hiern
Propagation of Senecio gabonicus Oliv. & Hiern can be done through several methods, including:
Seed Propagation:
Senecio gabonicus Oliv. & Hiern can be propagated through seeds, which can be harvested once the flowers have bloomed and turned to seed heads. The seeds should be collected and stored in a dry location to ensure their viability. When sowing, the seeds should be planted in a well-draining soil mixture and kept moist until germination occurs
Cutting Propagation:
Cuttings can be taken from the stem of an established Senecio gabonicus Oliv. & Hiern plant. The cutting should be several inches long and taken from a non-flowering stem. The bottom leaves of the cutting should be removed, and it should be allowed to callus over before being planted in a well-draining soil mixture. The cutting should be kept moist until roots develop and growth begins.
Division Propagation:
Senecio gabonicus Oliv. & Hiern can also be propagated through division, which involves separating an established plant into multiple sections. This method should be done in spring or fall when the plant is not actively growing. The clump of the plant should be carefully dug up and separated into smaller sections, each with their own roots system. The divisions can then be replanted into their own containers or in the desired location.
Disease Management
Senecio gabonicus Oliv. & Hiern is susceptible to fungal infections such as powdery mildew, rust, and leaf spot. Powdery mildew appears as a white powdery growth on the leaves and stem. Rust causes red, yellow, or brown rusted spots on leaves and stems. Leaf spot appears as brown spots on the leaves accompanied by yellowing and defoliation.
To manage fungal infections, remove the infected parts of the plant and destroy them. Avoid overhead watering and maintain appropriate spacing between plants to promote airflow. Apply a fungicide according to the instructions on the label to prevent further fungal spread.
Pest Management
Common pests that can infest Senecio gabonicus Oliv. & Hiern are spider mites, aphids, and whiteflies. Spider mites cause webbing and stippling damage on the leaves. Aphids feed on the leaves and excrete honeydew, leading to sooty mold development. Whiteflies cause damage by feeding on the leaves and transmitting viral infections.
To manage pest infestations, identify the pests and apply insecticidal soap or neem oil to the affected areas according to the instructions on the label. Introduce natural predators such as ladybugs, lacewings, and parasitic wasps. Avoid over-fertilizing and over-watering the plants, as this can attract pests. Regularly monitor the plants to detect early signs of infestation and take immediate action.
