Characteristics

Senecio radicans is a fast-growing plant with vines that can reach at least 3 feet long. The plant's small pointed leaves grow single-file along the cascading stems, with the sides of the leaves partly translucent, allowing sunlight to shine through. Tiny white, yellow or lavender flowers appear in fall and winter, in clusters on heads that look like paintbrushes, and have a sweet cinnamon-like fragrance. All parts of Senecio radicans are poisonous if ingested.

Climate

Senecio radicans is native to South Africa and can handle temperatures as high as 110 degrees F and as low as 25 degrees F. These plants do well in a variety of light conditions, but prefer medium to full sun indoors and part-shade outside. They do not do well in frost, so if you're growing them in containers outdoors, bring them inside when frost threatens. Indoors, these plants do best in an average house temperature during the growing season, but during the dormant period prefer 50 to 55 degrees F, although they can tolerate down to 45 degrees F.

Soil and Water

Ideally, plant Senecio radicans in an area with light shade provided by shrubs or rock overhangs in a well-drained soil with compost added if the soil is poor. Fertilizer isn't usually required, but if you decide to use some, any regular plant food will do. Keep plants just moist until established, then water only when the soil is dry during warmer months. In cool months, water these plants less frequently and allow the soil to stay dry for a week before watering. Senecio radicans has a high tolerance for drought.

Propagation

Propagating Senecio radicans is relatively easy. Use a sharp knife or garden shears to tak,e a clipping. Set the cutting aside in a dry, protected place out of direct sunlight until the cut end dries and seals, typically three days to a week. Let the cutting root in water or put the clipping directly into soil and allow it to root in place. These plants will actually thrive best when given the occasional trim.