Aleutian ragwort

Senecio cannabifolius

Physical Characteristics

Senecio cannabifolius is a PERENNIAL growing to 2 m (6ft 7in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

E. Asia - China, Japan, Siberia.

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Edible Uses: Leaves and stems - cooked[46, 61, 105]. A bitter taste should be removed by leaching the leaves or cooking them in more than one change of water[177]. Some caution is advised, see the notes above on toxicity.

Medicinal Uses

Anodyne Antirheumatic Contraceptive Skin The plant (though the part used is not specified) is anodyne, antirheumatic, contraceptive and used in the treatment of skin complaints. It stimulates the circulation[147, 178]. A decoction is used in the treatment of amenorrhoea, abdominal distension and cramps, traumatic injuries, bruises and swellings[147].

Known Hazards

Although no mention of toxicity has been seen for this species, it belongs to a genus that contains a number of plants with a cumulative poisonous effect on the liver[65]. Some caution is advised.