Groundsels and fireweeds - native and introduced (Senecio species)

Senecios are often known as fireweeds or groundsels. They may have radiating petals, or all the florets are tubular. All of the local senecios have yellow flowers.

Cotton Fireweed (Senecio quadridentatus) Much branched. Cottony.

Purple-leaf Groundsel (Senecio phelleus) Branched. Flowers almost hidden. Leaf-back usually purple. Common

Shrubby Groundsel (Senecio minimus) Branched. Flowers almost hidden. Leaf-back usually cobwebby. Uncommon

Common Groundsel (*Senecio vulgaris) Low growing. Green. Almost succulent.

Annual Fireweed (Senecio glomeratus) Leaves toothed. Erect plant.

Groundsel (Senecio hispidulus) Much branched. Deeply toothed leaves. Cottony.

Scented Groundsel (Senecio odoratus) Leaves bluish, stem-clasping and toothed.

Fireweed Groundsel (Senecio linearifolius) Leaves long, narrow. Rare locally.

Varied Groundsel (Senecio pinnatifolius) Leaves divided into very narrow segments. Rare locally.

Ragwort (*Senecio jacobaea) Leaves divided into broadish segments. Rare locally.