Origin
Senecio glaucus L. subsp. coronopifolius (Maire) C.Alexander is a plant that belongs to the family Asteraceae and is native to the Mediterranean region, specifically in the Iberian Peninsula (Portugal and Spain).
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as Mount Atlas daisy or Crownleaf Senecio. In some regions, it is also called "Senecio glaucus subsp." or "Senecio coronopifolius."
Uses
The leaves of Senecio glaucus L. subsp. coronopifolius are used as a herbal remedy or a traditional medicine for various health conditions such as stomach problems, urinary and kidney infections, and skin diseases. It is also used as an astringent and wound-healing agent.
Furthermore, the plant is commonly used as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscape designs.
General Appearance
Senecio glaucus L. subsp. coronopifolius is a perennial, herbaceous plant that grows up to 60-100 cm in height and 30-60 cm in width. It has glaucous green leaves that are basal and alternate, forming a rosette at the base. The leaves have a silver, waxy coating that provides a unique appearance. The stems are erect, branching, and have multiple yellow flower heads that bloom in summer and early fall, attracting pollinators to the area.
The plant prefers well-drained, sandy soil and grows in full sun to partial shade conditions. It is drought-tolerant, making it suitable for xeriscaping or low-water landscaping projects.
Light Requirements
Senecio glaucus L. subsp. coronopifolius generally thrives in full sun to partial shade. It can grow well in areas that are partially shaded, but for the best plant growth, it is recommended to grow this plant in a bright area
Temperature Requirements
Senecio glaucus L. subsp. coronopifolius grows well in cool to moderately warm temperatures. This plant species grows best in areas with a temperature range of 18°C to 24°C. However, it can still grow well in temperatures as low as 5°C and as high as 30°C, provided that the plant is not exposed to extreme weather conditions such as frost or hot, dry winds
Soil Requirements
Senecio glaucus L. subsp. coronopifolius grows well in various soil types, but it is essential to choose moisture-retentive and well-draining soils. This plant species prefers soils that are rich in organic matter. It thrives in pH levels ranging from 6.0 to 7.5. It is recommended to add organic matter such as compost, aged manure, or leaf mold to the soil before planting to improve its quality
Cultivation
Senecio glaucus L. subsp. coronopifolius (Maire) C.Alexander, commonly known as blue chalksticks, is a hardy evergreen perennial that is native to Morocco. It is an easy plant to cultivate and can be grown in pots or in the ground.
The plant grows well in well-drained soil and requires full sun for optimal growth. In areas where temperatures rise above 90°F, it is advisable to plant the blue chalksticks in areas where they can receive partial shade.
Watering
Since blue chalksticks are succulent plants, they can store water in their leaves, meaning they do not require a lot of watering. Overwatering can lead to root rot and can cause the plant to die. Water the plant once a week, or even less in cooler temperatures.
Fertilization
Senecio glaucus L. subsp. coronopifolius (Maire) C.Alexander does not require much fertilization. Adding a small amount of organic fertilizer during the growing season can improve the plant's growth and overall health. Avoid applying too much fertilizer as it can cause the plant to grow too fast and become leggy.
Pruning
Blue chalksticks require minimal pruning, and it is only done to maintain the desired shape and size of the plant. Prune the plant in the spring before new growth emerges to remove any damaged or dead parts.
Propagation Methods for Senecio glaucis L. subsp. coronopifolius
Senecio glaucus L. subsp. coronopifolius, commonly known as the coastal ragwort or sea ragwort, is a herbaceous plant species commonly found in sandy and rocky coastal zones of North Africa. The plant's propagation methods are critical for the successful cultivation of the species.
Seed Propagation
Senecio glaucus L. subsp. coronopifolius is propagated using seeds. The seeds should be sown either in early spring or late autumn, depending on the climate. The seeds should be placed in seed trays or germination trays filled with well-draining soil and covered with a thin layer of vermiculite. The trays should be kept in a warm, well-lit area such as a greenhouse or a sunny windowsill. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. The seedlings should emerge within two to three weeks, and once they are large enough to handle, they should be transplanted into larger pots.
Cuttings Propagation
The plant can also be propagated through cuttings. Select healthy shoots that are approximately 10 cm long, remove the lower leaves, and dip the cut end into rooting hormone powder. Plant the cuttings in well-draining soil and cover with a clear plastic bag to create a humid environment. The bag should be removed daily to prevent the cuttings from rotting. Within two to three weeks, the cuttings should have rooted and can be transplanted into larger pots.
Division Propagation
Division propagation should be done in early spring or autumn. Carefully dig up the plant and separate the roots into several smaller sections, ensuring that each section contains enough foliage. Replant each section into pots or directly into the ground.
Air Layering Propagation
Air layering is another propagation method suitable for Senecio glaucus L. subsp. coronopifolius. Select a healthy, upright stem, and make a shallow cut approximately halfway through the stem, near a leaf node. Apply rooting hormone powder to the cut area and wrap a damp sphagnum moss around it. Cover the moss with plastic and secure it in place with string or a rubber band. The stem should be kept moist, and within a few weeks, roots should begin to form. Once the roots have formed, cut the stem below the air layer and plant it in a pot or directly in the ground.
Disease Management
Senecio glaucus L. subsp. coronopifolius (Maire) C.Alexander is susceptible to several diseases. Here are some of the common diseases and their management strategies:
Leaf Spot
Leaf spot is caused by the fungus Alternaria tenuissima and often appears as small brown spots on the leaves. To manage this disease, remove and destroy the infected leaves. Avoid overhead watering and keep the plant well-ventilated. Apply a fungicide if necessary.
Powdery Mildew
Powdery mildew is caused by the fungus Erysiphe cichoracearum and appears as a white powdery coating on the leaves. To manage this disease, remove and destroy the infected leaves. Avoid overhead watering and keep the plant well-ventilated. Apply a fungicide if necessary.
Root Rot
Root rot is caused by the soil-borne fungus Phytophthora cinnamomi and occurs when the soil is too wet. To manage this disease, ensure that the plant is planted in well-draining soil. Avoid overwatering and keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Apply a fungicide if necessary.
Pest Management
Senecio glaucus L. subsp. coronopifolius (Maire) C.Alexander is also susceptible to pests. Here are some of the common pests and their management strategies:
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny pests that feed on the plant's sap, causing yellowing and stunted growth. To manage this pest, wash the plant with a strong stream of water, making sure to rinse the undersides of the leaves. Apply an insecticidal soap or oil if necessary.
Mealybugs
Mealybugs are small, white, soft-bodied insects that form cottony masses on the plant's stems and leaves. To manage this pest, remove and destroy the infected parts of the plant. Apply an insecticidal soap or oil if necessary.
Aphids
Aphids are small insects that feed on the plant's sap, causing yellowing and stunted growth. To manage this pest, wash the plant with a strong stream of water, making sure to rinse the undersides of the leaves. Apply an insecticidal soap or oil if necessary.
