Taxonomy

Division:

Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants

Family:

Asteraceae

Genus:

Senecio

Species:

Senecio elegans

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:

Annual

Growth Habit:

Forb/herb

Height:

1-2 ft

Light Requirements:

Full Sun

Drought Tolerance:

High

Bloom Months:

mar, apr, may, sep, oct, nov

Bloom Colors:

pink, purple, white

Ground Cover:

Yes

Native Range

United States: California

Keystone Species Ranking

Bee Keystone:

★★☆☆☆ Based on number of native bee species using this genus for pollen and nectar (Source: National Wildlife Federation)

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:

sandy, well-drained, nutrient-poor soil

pH:

5.5 - 7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)

Drainage:

excellent drainage required

Moisture:

dry to moderate

Notes:

native to coastal areas with poor soil fertility