Roldana petasitis aka Velvet Groundsel

Roldana petasitis is a shrub from eastern Mexico. It belongs to Asteraceae, the daisy family, and has a subtropical native range. Garden sources also class it as a perennial. Its common names include velvet groundsel and Californian geranium. Another name is plume-leaved groundsel. Older scientific names include Cineraria petasitis and Senecio petasitis. It is not native to Britain or Ireland.

The plant has a bushy form and reaches about 10 feet [3 metres] tall. The RHS gives a maturity time of one to two years. Its large, broad leaves give it a tropical look. They are dark green, with a soft, velvety surface. Deep veins mark the leaves, which also show reddish tones. The RHS account differs on whether it keeps its leaves. Its main description calls it evergreen, while its foliage entry says deciduous. These entries do not give a clear account of seasonal leaf loss.

Clusters of yellow flowers have the form of small daisies. The RHS records flowering from January to April. This brings bloom through winter and into spring under UK conditions. The broad leaves and yellow blooms provide two distinct garden features. The RHS lists the plant for flower beds and borders. It also suits courtyard, city, cottage, and informal gardens. The flowers can be used for cutting.

Grow it in full sun with shelter from exposure. The RHS lists south-facing and west-facing sites. Soil should stay moist but allow water to drain well. Suitable soil types include chalk, loam, and sand. A neutral to slightly alkaline soil suits its stated needs. The RHS assigns it a UK hardiness rating of H4. That rating covers minimum temperatures of 14–23°F [−10 to −5°C]. Its growing notes also call for protection from winter cold. Sow seed with gentle heat in early spring to raise new plants. Cut the plant back once flowering ends.

Aphids, flea beetles, and cabbage root fly may attack it. The RHS also lists club root and downy mildews as possible diseases. Root rot and a virus may cause trouble too. These are possible problems, not claims that every plant will suffer. The supplied sources give no account of edible parts or toxicity. They therefore offer no basis for treating this plant as food.