Understanding Groundsel: Types, Toxicity, and Uses

Groundsel is a common name for several plants in the Asteraceae family, particularly:

1. Senecio vulgaris, also known as common groundsel or garden groundsel, which is native to Europe and has been introduced to other parts of the world as a weed. It is an annual or short-lived perennial herb that grows up to 30 cm tall, with yellow flowers and deeply lobed leaves.
2. Jacobaea vulgaris, also known as ragwort or tansy mustard, which is similar to Senecio vulgaris but has larger, more deeply lobed leaves and purple-gray flowers. It is also native to Europe and has been introduced to other parts of the world as a weed.
3. Other plants in the Asteraceae family that are sometimes referred to as groundsel include Cichorium intybus (chicory), Erechtites hieracifolia (tansy), and Packera paui (western groundsel).

Groundsel is considered a weed because it can outcompete native vegetation and cause problems for agriculture and ecosystems. It is also toxic to some animals, particularly livestock, if consumed in large quantities. However, some species of groundsel are edible for humans and have been used as food or medicine in the past.