Senecio haworthii, commonly known as the Woolly Senecio is a distinctive and tactile succulent admired for its densely felted, silvery-white leaves that create a soft, woolly appearance. This unique plant adds a touch of textural interest and visual contrast to succulent collections and arrangements, resembling miniature cocoons or fluffy silver fingers. The specific designation "caasa" might refer to a particular cultivar or variation within the species, potentially with slightly different characteristics.
 
Key Features of Senecio haworthii caasa (General Characteristics of Senecio haworthii)
Woolly, Silvery-White Leaves: The most striking feature is its thick, cylindrical leaves densely covered in fine, silvery-white hairs, giving them a soft, felted or woolly texture.
Upright or Slightly Trailing Stems: Stems are also covered in the white hairs and tend to grow upright initially, sometimes becoming slightly trailing with age.
Compact Growth Habit: Typically forms a relatively compact and somewhat branching plant.
Small Yellow Flowers: Mature plants may produce clusters of small, bright yellow, daisy-like flowers on slender stalks, though flowering can be infrequent.
Unique Texture: The soft, woolly leaves provide a very distinct tactile sensation.
Drought-Tolerant: Like many succulents, it is adapted to arid conditions and is drought-tolerant once established.
 
Care for Your Senecio haworthii caasa (General Care for Woolly Senecio)
Light: Prefers bright, indirect sunlight. While it can tolerate some direct morning sun, intense afternoon sun can scorch the woolly leaves. Adequate light is crucial for maintaining its compact form and vibrant silver color.
Soil: Requires well-draining soil to prevent root rot. A commercial cactus or succulent mix is ideal.
Watering: Water thoroughly only when the soil is completely dry to the touch. Overwatering is a significant risk. Reduce watering considerably during the dormant winter months.
Temperature: Prefers moderate temperatures and is not frost-tolerant. Protect from freezing conditions.
Humidity: Adapts well to typical household humidity levels. Good air circulation is beneficial. Avoid excessive humidity, which can trap moisture in the woolly leaves and lead to rot.
 
Maintenance for a Thriving Plant (General Maintenance for Woolly Senecio)
Handling with Care: The woolly coating can be rubbed off with excessive handling, so it's best to touch the plant minimally.
Removing Dead Leaves: Carefully remove any dead or dried leaves from the base of the stems.
Repotting: Repot every 1-2 years or when the plant has outgrown its container. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger with good drainage. Spring or early summer is the best time for repotting.
Pest Control: Monitor for common succulent pests like mealybugs and aphids, which can sometimes hide within the woolly foliage. Treat any infestations promptly with appropriate methods.
Fertilizing: Fertilize sparingly during the active growing season (spring and summer) with a diluted balanced liquid fertilizer formulated for succulents. Avoid over-fertilizing.
 
Propagation Methods for Expanding Your Collection (General Propagation for Woolly Senecio)
Stem Cuttings: The most common and successful method. Take healthy stem cuttings a few inches long, allow the cut ends to callus over for a day or two, and then plant them in well-draining soil. Keep the soil lightly moist until roots establish.
Leaf Cuttings: While possible, leaf propagation can be slower and less reliable for this species. Select healthy, plump leaves, allow the cut end to callus, and place them on top of well-draining soil. New plantlets may eventually emerge.
Seeds: Propagation can also be done by seeds, although this method is typically slower and less common for home gardeners.
 
Senecio haworthii, particularly the 'caasa' variation, is a unique and visually appealing succulent with its soft, woolly texture and silvery-white foliage. Its relatively easy care requirements and distinctive appearance make it a delightful addition to any succulent collection, providing a fascinating tactile and visual element.
 
 
* Picture and information intended only as a guide. Size and colours of plants will vary, not any 1 plant is exactly the same and minor variations will occur.
 
** All plants will be posted bare rooted.