Flower Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| English Name | Groundsel |
| Scientific Name | Senecio vulgaris |
| MainColor | Yellow |
| PlantType |  Herb |
| Distribution |  Native |
| Season Found | July (Jan - Dec) |
| ImageUrl | Senecio-004 |
| Photographer | DP |
| Location Found | St Albans |
| Country Found | UK |
| Last Updated | 02 September 2026 |
| Photo Quality | B |
Flower Details
Description
A fast-growing annual weed with deeply lobed leaves and clusters of small yellow flower heads that quickly form fluffy seed tufts.
Distribution
Native to the UK and Europe; common in disturbed soils, gardens, and wastelands.
Medicinal/Other Uses
Historically used as a purgative and for menstrual issues, but now largely abandoned due to toxicity.
Edibility
Not edible – highly toxic.
Human Toxicity
Highly_Toxic
Contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which are toxic to the liver. Even small doses over time can cause serious harm.
Pet Toxicity
Highly toxic to cats, dogs, and livestock – ingestion can lead to liver damage or failure.
Active Compounds
Senecionine, seneciphylline, jacobine (all hepatotoxic alkaloids).
Quality Issue
Enhanced