Family: Asteraceae
Author: Richardson
Bibliography: Bot. App.: 747 (1823)
Year: 1823
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Senecio
Vegetable: False
Observations: Subarctic America to NW. U.S.A.
Description
The Small blacktip ragwort, scientifically known as Senecio lugens, is a striking member of the Asteraceae family. First documented in 1823 by the botanist Richardson, this resilient plant is native to the vast and varying landscapes of Subarctic America, extending its reach down to the northwestern regions of the United States.
Senecio lugens is notable for its hardy nature, thriving in the often harsh climates characteristic of its native range. The common name, Small blacktip ragwort, aptly describes some of its unique features. The plant bears small, dark-tipped flowers that stand out against the typically muted tones of its environment, making it an interesting subject for botanists and plant enthusiasts alike.
Adapted to the cooler climates of its habitat, Senecio lugens exhibits a robustness that allows it to endure and even flourish in regions where other plant species might struggle. This adaptability not only highlights its ecological significance but also offers insights into the incredible biodiversity present within subarctic and northwestern American ecosystems.
As a member of the Asteraceae family, which is known for its diversity and widespread species, the Small blacktip ragwort shares common characteristics such as composite flower heads and often intricate petal arrangements. These features not only contribute to its aesthetic appeal but also play a role in its reproductive success, attracting various pollinators that are crucial for the plant’s proliferation.
In summation, Senecio lugens stands as a testament to the resilience and diversity of the plant kingdom, particularly within its subarctic and northwestern U.S. habitats. Its presence enriches the botanical tapestry of these regions, offering both ecological benefits and opportunities for further botanical study.
Common Names
Eng: small blacktip ragwort, small black-tip ragwort, black-tip groundsel
Fra: séneçon pleureur
En: Small blacktip ragwort, Small black-tip ragwort, Black-tip groundsel
Fr: Séneçon pleureur
Synonyms
- Senecio kalmii (Nutt.)
- Senecio lugens var. parryi (D.C.Eaton)
- Senecio lugens var. blaisdellii (Eastw.)
- Senecio integerrimus var. lugens ((Rich.) B.Boivin)
- Senecio canadensis (L.)
- Cacalia lugens (MacMill.)
- Senecio lugens var. megalocephalus (A.Nelson)
Distribution
- Alaska (native)
- Alberta (native)
- British Columbia (native)
- Montana (native)
- Northwest Territorie (native)
- Washington (native)
- Wyoming (native)
- Yukon (native)
Additional Images
Flower
Taken Mar 20, 2013 by EOL − Wynn Anderson (cc-by-nc-sa)
Leaf
Taken Mar 20, 2013 by EOL − Wynn Anderson (cc-by-nc-sa)
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3108301)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:233455-2)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Senecio lugens Richardson)
Specifications
Growth habit>: Forb/herb
