Silver Ragwort

Scientific name: Jacobaea maritima (formerly Senecio cineraria)

INTRODUCTION

Also known as dusty miller, Jacobaea maritima has striking silver foliage that serves as great contrast in gardens and landscapes. The pinnately-lobed leaves are fuzzy in texture, since they are covered in little hairs that trap moisture and make the plant drought-tolerant. Usually considered less significant are the clusters of vivid yellow flowers that begin appearing in the second year.

SCIENTIFIC NAME CHANGE

Silver ragwort was originally named Senecio cineraria, but taxonomists later reclassified it as Jacobaea maritima, along with many species in the Asteraceae family. Despite the change, some people still call the plant by its previous name.

USES

Some people have applied silver ragwort juice to their eyes as a remedy for cataracts and eye infections, but it is generally considered unsafe. In fact, it is poisonous when consumed and especially dangerous for the liver.