Jacobaea maritima ‘Silver Dust’ – Silver Ragwort

Formerly known as Cineraria maritima or Senecio cineraria

‘Silver Dust’ is a striking foliage plant grown for its finely divided, silver-white leaves. We love using it to add contrast and texture to containers, borders and seasonal displays. Its soft-looking foliage pairs beautifully with colourful flowering plants, yet it is also attractive enough to stand on its own.

Origin

Jacobaea maritima originates from the Mediterranean region, where it grows naturally in sunny, exposed coastal areas. Its woolly leaves help protect it from heat, wind and dry conditions. 

Care Guide

• Position: Plant in full sun for the brightest silver foliage and neatest growth. It will tolerate partial shade, but the leaves may appear greener.

• Watering: Water regularly while the plant becomes established. Once settled, it is drought-tolerant and should be allowed to dry slightly between waterings.

• Soil: Choose light, sharply drained soil. Avoid heavy or constantly wet ground, particularly during winter.

• Containers: Use peat-free multipurpose compost mixed with horticultural grit or perlite. Ensure the container has adequate drainage holes.

• Feeding: Feed container-grown plants with a balanced liquid fertiliser every four to six weeks during spring and summer. Plants growing in the ground rarely require regular feeding.

• Temperature: ‘Silver Dust’ tolerates cool conditions and coastal exposure. It may survive a mild UK winter in a sheltered, well-drained position, although it is often grown as an annual bedding plant.

• Pruning: Trim back long or untidy stems to encourage compact, bushy growth. Remove damaged foliage using clean secateurs.

• Flowers: Mature plants may produce clusters of small yellow flowers. These can be removed if you prefer the plant to concentrate on its silver foliage.

• Propagation: Take softwood or semi-ripe cuttings during spring or summer, or grow new plants from seed.

• Common problems: Waterlogged soil may cause root rot. Slugs and snails can damage young plants, while rust may occasionally affect the foliage.

Pet Safety

• Not pet-safe: Silver Ragwort should be treated as toxic to cats, dogs, horses and other animals if eaten.

• The plant contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which may cause digestive upset and potentially damage the liver, particularly after substantial or repeated ingestion. 

• Keep pots and planted displays away from pets that chew foliage.

• Wear gloves when pruning if you have sensitive skin, and wash your hands afterwards.

• If your pet eats any part of the plant, contact your veterinary practice promptly for advice.

Our Tip

Give ‘Silver Dust’ as much sunshine and drainage as possible. Its foliage looks best in an open, sunny position, and keeping the roots away from constantly wet soil is the key to maintaining a healthy, compact plant.

Sold without a decorative pot, colour and size may vary slightly.

Local plant delivery or collection available in Belfast and throughout Northern Ireland.