Winged Groundsel

Description:

• Senecio pterophorus is characterized by its finely divided, thread-like leaves, giving it a delicate and feathery appearance.
• The plant typically grows in a basal rosette form, and the leaves are deeply lobed.
• It produces clusters of small yellow flowers that resemble those of many plants in the Asteraceae family.
• The stems may be slightly winged, contributing to the common name "winged groundsel."

Habitat:

• Native to North America, Senecio pterophorus is found in a variety of habitats, including meadows, prairies, open woodlands, and disturbed areas.
• It is adaptable to different soil types and can thrive in both dry and moist conditions.

Flowering:

• The plant typically blooms from late spring to early summer, producing small yellow flowers in clusters.

Ecological Impact:

• While Senecio pterophorus is a native species, it has the potential to become weedy and invasive in certain environments.
• In some regions, it may spread rapidly and compete with native vegetation.

Toxicity:

• Many species within the Senecio genus contain pyrrolizidine alkaloids, some of which can be toxic to livestock when consumed in large quantities.
• It's important to exercise caution and prevent livestock from grazing on areas where this plant is abundant.

Control Measures:

• In areas where Senecio pterophorus becomes invasive, control measures may be implemented.
• These measures can include manual removal, herbicide application, and other management strategies to prevent the spread of the plant.