Senecio scandens

Physical Characteristics

Senecio scandens is an evergreen Climber growing to 5 m (16ft 5in) at a medium rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 9 and is frost tender. It is in leaf all year, in flower from September to October. 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.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade; Shady Edge;

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal Uses

Depurative Dysentery Febrifuge Malaria Ophthalmic The whole plant is depurative, febrifuge and ophthalmic[147, 178]. Internally, a decoction is used in the treatment of epidemic influenza, malaria, boils and abscesses, acute conjunctivitis, dysentery and enteritis[147]. The plant can also be crushed and applied externally[147].

Known Hazards

One report says that this species is slightly toxic[147], it belongs to a genus that contains a number of plants with a cumulative poisonous effect on the liver[65]. Some caution is advised.