Delphinium-leaved Parasenecio

Choosing the Right Spot:

Delphinium-leaved Parasenecio is a beautiful plant with lush, lobed leaves and striking flowers. It’s not as commonly grown in gardens, but it's an excellent choice if you're looking to add something unique. This plant prefers cooler climates, so if you live in a region with mild summers or have some shade available, you’re in luck!

What You'll Need:

Seeds or young plants (if possible, start with young plants since seeds can be slow to germinate)

A pot or garden bed

Soil that holds moisture well but drains excess water (mix compost into regular soil if needed)

Mulch (to help retain moisture)

Timing: This plant does best when planted in early spring or fall when temperatures are cooler. Avoid planting during hot summer months, as it doesn’t like extreme heat.

Where to Plant: Choose a spot with partial shade—a place where it gets some morning sun but is protected from harsh afternoon rays. If your garden has dappled shade, that works perfectly too.

If Using Young Plants:

1. Dig a hole about twice as wide as the root ball of your young plant.
2. Place the plant into the hole, making sure the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil.
3. Backfill the hole with soil, gently pressing down to remove air pockets.
4. Water thoroughly after planting.

If Starting from Seeds:

1. Sow seeds in pots or trays filled with moist seed-starting mix.
2. Lightly press the seeds into the soil; they need light to germinate, so don’t bury them too deep.
3. Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy.
4. Place the tray or pot in a cool, shaded area. Germination can take anywhere from 2-4 weeks, so patience is key!
5. Once the seedlings have grown a few inches tall and have several sets of leaves, they can be transplanted into the garden.

Spacing: If you’re planting more than one, space them about 18-24 inches apart to allow room for their large leaves to spread out without overcrowding.

Pro Tip: After planting, add a layer of mulch around the base of the plant to help keep the soil moist and cool.

Watering: Delphinium-leaved Parasenecio loves moisture, so you’ll need to water regularly, especially during dry spells. Aim to keep the soil consistently damp, but avoid letting it sit in standing water, which could lead to root rot.

Feeding: Feed your plant with a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. Just follow the instructions on the fertilizer package for how much to use.

Sunlight & Temperature: Remember, this plant likes cool, shaded areas. Too much direct sunlight can scorch its leaves, so make sure it’s getting enough shade, especially during the hottest part of the day. It also thrives in cooler temperatures, so if you live in a warmer climate, extra shade and regular watering will be essential.

Pruning: You can trim back any damaged or yellowing leaves throughout the growing season to keep the plant looking tidy. After flowering, you may also want to cut back the flower stalks to encourage new growth.

Winter Care: In colder climates, Delphinium-leaved Parasenecio will die back in winter. Don’t worry! It should regrow in the spring. Just cover the base of the plant with a thick layer of mulch to protect the roots during frosty weather.

While Delphinium-leaved Parasenecio isn’t typically grown for harvesting like vegetables or herbs, you can enjoy its beauty by cutting a few stems for floral arrangements. The plant produces tall spikes of small, daisy-like flowers that look stunning in bouquets.

When to Cut: The best time to cut flowers is early in the morning when they’re fully hydrated. Use sharp scissors or pruning shears to snip the flower stalks just above a leaf node.

How to Use: Place the freshly cut stems in a vase with water. These flowers can last up to a week indoors, adding a touch of elegance to your home decor.

After Flowering: Once the plant has finished blooming, you can cut back the flower stalks to encourage the plant to focus its energy on healthy leaf growth. This will also help maintain a neat appearance.

Q: Why are the leaves turning yellow?

A: Yellowing leaves can be a sign of overwatering or poor drainage. Make sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged. If the soil feels soggy, reduce watering and ensure it drains properly.

Q: Can I grow Delphinium-leaved Parasenecio in full sun?

A: This plant prefers partial shade, especially in warmer climates. Full sun can cause the leaves to burn, so it’s best to provide some shade during the hottest part of the day.

Q: How do I protect the plant from pests?

A: Slugs and snails can sometimes be an issue. To deter them, sprinkle crushed eggshells or diatomaceous earth around the base of the plant. You can also pick off any visible pests by hand.

Q: Does this plant come back every year?

A: Yes! Delphinium-leaved Parasenecio is a perennial, meaning it will regrow each spring after dying back in the winter. Just give it a good layer of mulch to protect the roots during colder months.

Q: My plant isn’t flowering. What’s wrong?

A: Lack of flowers could be due to insufficient nutrients or too much shade. Try feeding the plant with a balanced fertilizer and ensure it’s getting enough indirect light. Also, make sure you’re not over-pruning, as this can prevent flowering.