About
A branched, herbaceous annual or perennial to about 40cm from dry, sandy habitats in the Great Plains of North America, with narrow, succulent-like, mid-green leaves tipped with a small spine and clusters of very small, yellow flowers in summer, followed by reddish, fleshy fruits. A plant of some toxicological interest (containing oxalates), a weed in its native range.
About the genus
Sauromatum is a genus of plants encompassing species that may be herbaceous, shrubby, or woody. They are grown for their ornamental flowers, foliage, or fruit, and vary in hardiness and cultural requirements
Growing conditions
SunlightPartial shade
Soil typeClay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHNeutral, Acid
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, North-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH1C
Plant details
Plant typeBulbs, Conservatory Greenhouse
HabitColumnar upright
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height1-2 years
Suggested usesPatio and container plants, Sub-tropical
Native toHimalaya to Java
ToxicityHarmful if eaten, skin/eye irritant. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling 21665,senecio-newcombei,Senecio newcombei,,A compact
Care notes
CultivationPlant the tubers 15cm deep in late winter. Under glass, grow in peat-free, loam-based potting compost in bright, indirect light. In growth, water moderately; keep completely dry in winter. Outdoors, grow in well-drained, fertile, humus-rich, neutral to slightly acid soil in partial shade. Lift and store the tubers in dry, frost-free conditions over winter
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by removing offsets while dormant in winter
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free