Senecio cineraria 'Hoar Frost' (Hoar Frost Dusty Miller) — Perennial

Overview

Senecio cineraria 'Hoar Frost' is a perennial in the genus Senecio, part of the Asteraceae family. It typically grows around 0.6 m tall. Senecio cineraria 'Hoar Frost' grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. Suggested uses include borders, edging and containers. It is native to Africa, Europe, Asia-Temperate, Krym, Baleares, Spain, Corse and Greece.

About

Senecio cineraria 'Hoar Frost' is a perennial in the Asteraceae grown for its silvery, felt-like foliage and compact habit. It reaches about 0.6 m and keeps a pale, hoary leaf texture all season. Flowering occurs from June to September. The foliage is the primary ornamental feature; the plant is toxic if ingested.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Jacobaea maritima

About the genus

Senecio is a genus of flowering plants in the daisy family (Asteraceae) that includes groundsels and some ragworts. Variously circumscribed taxonomically, the genus Senecio is one of the largest genera of flowering plants. Plants of the World Online currently accepts 1482 species.

Wikipedia contributors, "Senecio", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Senecio

In the garden

Senecio cineraria 'Hoar Frost' is a perennial from regions of Africa, temperate Asia and southern Europe, including Spain, Corse, the Baleares, Greece and Krym. Gardeners prize it for its densely haired, pale leaves which give beds a frosted appearance while the plant itself remains relatively compact at around 0.6 m. Plant it in full sun where the foliage will best retain its silvery tone. It tolerates a range of soils — sandy, loamy or clay — provided they are well drained; it also accepts a slightly moist but well-drained condition. In UK hardiness terms it is H4 (average), so it survives typical garden winters across much of the country but avoid waterlogged, poorly drained sites. Use 'Hoar Frost' at the front of borders, to edge pathways or in containers where its pale leaves set off darker perennials. It flowers from June to September, adding a seasonal note while the leaves remain the main ornamental asset. Take care with placement around children and pets, since the plant is toxic if ingested, and position where its frosted foliage can be seen against richer colours or gravel surfaces where the texture reads best.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Senecio

Sunlight: Full sun
Soil type: Sandy, Loamy, Clay
Soil moisture: Well-drained, Moist but well-drained
Exposure: Full sun
UK hardiness: H4

Plant details

Senecio cineraria 'Hoar Frost' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: Perennial
Height: 0.6 m
Suggested uses: Borders, Edging, Containers
Native to: Africa, Europe, Asia-Temperate, Krym, Baleares, Spain, Corse, Greece
Toxicity: Toxic if ingested

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Senecio cineraria 'Hoar Frost'

Cultivation: Prefers well-drained soil; drought tolerant once established; avoid overwatering
Pruning: Trim back after flowering to maintain shape and encourage bushiness
Propagation: Cuttings, Seed

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Senecio cineraria 'Hoar Frost'?

Prefers well-drained soil; drought tolerant once established; avoid overwatering.

Where is the best place to plant Senecio cineraria 'Hoar Frost'?

Senecio cineraria 'Hoar Frost' prefers full sun. It suits full sun positions.

What soil does Senecio cineraria 'Hoar Frost' need?

Senecio cineraria 'Hoar Frost' is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including sandy, loamy and clay. Aim for soil that stays well-drained to moist but well-drained.