woolly senecio succulent Senecio haworthii 'Cocoon Plant'

Senecio haworthii 'Cocoon Plant', with its frosty gray cylindrical leaves and fuzzy texture, it comes as no surprise where this eye-catching succulent gets it name. With a shrub-like growth habit, this variety can grow up to 12 inches tall and 24 inches wide, making it a substantial part of your succulent collection. Fascinatingly, in its native South Africa this plant is often used as tinder, since the white hair-like coating on the leaves can be scraped off and used as an excellent fire starter.

An overall hardy variety, ‘Cocoon Plant’ can do well in a partially shaded location, though it will put on its best and fullest growth when receiving at least 6 hours of bright sun each day. Like many succulents, it prefers to be watered infrequently, and the ‘soak and dry’ method will work well for this purpose. Fast draining soil, a pot with an adequate drainage hole, and excellent airflow around the leaves will prove extremely helpful in preventing rot and pest infestation, especially in the form of mealy bugs. Despite its resilient nature, this variety can easily succumb to cold temperatures below Zone 10, and should be protected from frost in cooler climates.

If you have pets or small children in your home, take care to keep ‘Cocoon Plant’ out of their reach – despite its appealing texture, the leaves can be toxic if ingested, as are the bright yellow flowers it produces annually.

**Please note:  This plant may display soil staining below the soil line due to its white, porous leaves. This staining is NOT rot.**