Large-headed Fireweed
Senecio macrocarpus
Straggly to erect perennial herb to 70 cm tall. Downy grey narrow leaves, less than 5 mm wide, and up to 10 cm long. Large flowerheads up to 18 mm long held upright.
| Details | |
|---|---|
| Flora Type | Herbs |
| Other Common Names | Large Fruit Fireweed |
| Distinctive Features | Leaves crowded towards the base of the plant. Leaves appear grey, covered with cobweb-like hairs, especially underneath. Seed of this species becomes jelly-like on wetting and sticks it to the soil to aid germination, an adaptation for dry environments. |
| Biology | Perennial. Well-drained soils. Can stay green all year round, or die off in dry seasons and re-sprout from a rootstock. Threats include grazing by rabbits and livestock, as well as changes to fire patterns. Seeds dispersed by wind. Long-lived. |
| Native Status | Native |
| Flowering Time | Sep-Nov. Occasionally Mar-Apr |