entire-leaved groundsel

Senecio integerrimus Nutt.

characteristics

Biennial or short-lived perennial with erect single stems that grow from a button-like base. Most leaves are basal; round and somewhat thick. Leaves on the upper stem may be slightly toothed. Young plants tend to be hairy. Flowering is a flat topped cluster with 5 - 20 bright yellow flowers. Flower centres are a deep yellow-orange and *bloom* first. Seeds are smooth with long bristles enabling them to be carried away by the wind. A member of the sunflower family.

Also known as lambstongue ragwort, tall western groundsel, lambstongue groundsel.

400,000 seeds/pound; starts from seed.

habitat

Fields, meadows, disturbed sites.

uses

Attracts a variety of bees, flies and butterflies.