Velvet Groundsel
(Roldana petasitis)
Velvet Groundsel (Roldana petasitis)
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Michael Wolf
CC BY-SA 3.0
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Michael Wolf
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CC BY-SA 3.0
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Photo by: Michael Wolf | License Type: CC BY-SA 3.0 | License URL: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0 | Uploader: Michael w | Publisher: Wikipedia Commons |


















































Estimated Native Range
Summary
Roldana petasitis, commonly known as Velvet Groundsel, is an evergreen shrub native to cloud forests and moist woodland areas in Mexico and Central America. It can reach a height and width of 6-10 feet (1.8-3 meters), with a sprawling habit that lends itself to a lush appearance. The plant’s large, heart-shaped leaves have a velvety texture, and its stems are thick and succulent. From late winter to spring, it produces clusters of small, bright yellow, daisy-like flowers that are quite showy and attract pollinators.
Velvet Groundsel is valued for its rapid growth and the tropical look of its foliage, making it a popular choice for creating a dense, leafy backdrop in gardens. It is often used in urban plantings, borders, and as an informal hedge. This shrub is relatively low-maintenance, requiring medium amounts of water and thriving in well-draining soils. It prefers full sun but can tolerate part shade. While generally pest-free, it can be susceptible to snail and slug damage. In regions with colder climates, Roldana petasitis may need protection from frost, as it is not frost-tolerant.CC BY-SA 4.0
Velvet Groundsel is valued for its rapid growth and the tropical look of its foliage, making it a popular choice for creating a dense, leafy backdrop in gardens. It is often used in urban plantings, borders, and as an informal hedge. This shrub is relatively low-maintenance, requiring medium amounts of water and thriving in well-draining soils. It prefers full sun but can tolerate part shade. While generally pest-free, it can be susceptible to snail and slug damage. In regions with colder climates, Roldana petasitis may need protection from frost, as it is not frost-tolerant.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Shrub
- Height: 6-10 feet
- Width: 6-10 feet
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Flower Color: Yellow
- Flowering Season: Spring, Winter
- Leaf Retention: Evergreen
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
- Water: Medium
- Drainage: Fast
Common Uses
Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Drought Tolerant, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Showy Flowers
Natural Habitat
Cloud forests and moist woodland areas
Other Names
Common Names: California Geranium , California-Geranium
Scientific Names: Roldana petasitis , Senecio petasitis , Cineraria petasitis , Cineraria platanifolia , Roldana petasitis var. petasitis , Senecio petasitolia
GBIF Accepted Name: Roldana petasitis (Sims) H.Rob. & Brettell