Silver ragwort - Jacobaea maritima (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Silver ragwort

Silver ragwort (Jacobaea maritima) is a very white-wooly, heat and drought tolerant evergreen subshrub native to the Mediterranean region. This species was formerly known as Senecio cineraria. Some species of bees build nests on silver ragwort's leaves. This species is deer resistant and often cultivated for horticultural purposes.

Scientific classification

Species

Silver ragwort (Jacobaea maritima)

Asters bellflowers fanflowers and allies

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Perennial, Annual

Lifespan

Herb, Shrub

Plant Type

Spring, Summer, Fall

Bloom Time

15 cm to 45 cm

Plant Height

15 cm to 45 cm

Spread

Silver, Gray

Leaf Color

1.2 cm to 1.5 cm

Flower Size

Yellow, Gold

Flower Color

Gray, Silver

Stem Color

Evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring, Summer, Fall

Growth Season

Rapid

Growth Rate

Images of Silver ragwort

Distribution of Silver ragwort

Distribution Map

Silver ragwort, native to the Mediterranean region, has expanded beyond its original range due to cultivation and naturalization. Its presence is now noted throughout temperate and subtropical zones on several continents. It is widely cultivated for ornamental purposes and has been introduced and become established in various parts of Europe, Asia, the Americas, and island nations.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

Silver ragwort is often a feature of exposed cottage and informal gardens thanks to its wind tolerance, low maintenance requirements, and silvery-grey felt-like leaves. If grown in containers, it suits city or courtyard gardens and can be a great cut flower.

Interesting Facts

Although this is a fairly common plant, it has a history of mistaken identity among botanists and horticulturists. It has been wrongly classified as Centaurea, which is often found among different online sources. Jacobaea maritima was once classified as a part of the genus Senecio and many times it is still misnamed as Senecio cineraria.

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Toxicity

Silver ragwort is mildly toxic to humans and pets. Ingesting the plant, which contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids, can cause liver damage and gastrointestinal issues like vomiting and diarrhea. In severe cases, prolonged exposure may lead to hepatic veno-occlusive disease. Both cats and dogs experience similar poisoning symptoms and require immediate veterinary care if ingestion is suspected.

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Quickly Identify Silver ragwort

Distinctive bright, silvery-grey foliage coated in fine, hair-like structures for frosted look.

Compact growth reaching 8-24 inches (20-60 cm) in height and width.

Bright yellow daisy-like flowers, 0.4-0.6 inches (1-1.5 cm) across, blooming from spring to frost.

Leaves measuring 2-6 inches (5-15 cm) long, pinnately lobed, densely covered in white hairs.

Unique texture with young leaves slightly lobed, maturing into deeply cut segments.

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Care Guide for Silver ragwort

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Silver ragwort thrives in drier coastal habitats and is drought-tolerant, requiring weekly watering. It flourishes in well-draining soil to prevent root rot, mimicking sandy substrates. Best grown outdoors, silver ragwort reflects resilience to sporadic moisture but should not be overwatered.

Fertilize: For silver ragwort, use balanced fertilizers like 10-10-10 monthly in the growing season at half the recommended dose, reducing to quarterly in winter. Water thoroughly after fertilization. Adjust strategies as silver ragwort matures, favoring young plants with more frequent feeding while established ones need less.

Pruning: Silver ragwort features silvery foliage and thrives with early spring or late winter pruning to promote dense growth. Regularly trim dead stems and reduce height by a third for shape. Post-bloom stem removal enhances lifespan, light access, air flow, and overall health.

Propagation: Silver ragwort is a perennial known for its silvery foliage. Propagate through healthy, non-flowering cuttings using rooting hormone. Plant in well-draining soil, maintain consistent moisture, and position in indirect light for optimal root establishment and growth.

Repotting: Repot silver ragwort every 2-3 years in early spring using a slightly larger pot to avoid overwatering. After repotting, position silver ragwort in a sunny area and water sparingly. Preferring well-draining soil, silver ragwort thrives with minimal care when repotted properly.

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