Semi-desert. Shrublands, openings. Summer.
Canyon de Chelly, June 10, 2004.

Senecio flaccidus is common in the early summer along dry, sandy, rocky roadsides and trails in Sagebrush/Pinyon/Juniper within 70 miles of the Four Corners.  It is typically about two feet wide and high.  Foliage is a conspicuous blue-green, wiry stems arch out and upward, leaves are thin, and bright flowers seem to float above the stems.  The plant is often even more conspicuous because it grows widely spaced from other plants.  

The first specimens of this plant came from Mexico in the early 1800s.

Semi-desert. Shrublands, openings. Summer.
Canyon de Chelly, June 10, 2004.

Semi-desert. Shrublands, openings. Summer.
Canyon de Chelly, June 10, 2004.

The very narrow leaves and stems appear sage-green because they are densely covered with fine, white hairs.

Range map © John Kartesz,
Floristic Synthesis of North America

State Color Key

Species present in state and native
Species present in state and exotic
Species not present in state

County Color Key

Species present and not rare
Species present and rare
Species extirpated (historic)
Species extinct
Species noxious
Species exotic and present
Native species, but adventive in state
Eradicated
Questionable presence

Range map for Senecio flaccidus