Dusty Miller 'Silverdust'

Silverdust Dusty Miller (Senecio cineraria / Jacobaea maritima)

Silverdust Dusty Miller is a timeless classic, celebrated for its intricately cut, velvety silver-white foliage. The deeply lobed leaves, ranging from 3–7" long, resemble delicate snowflakes, adding a frosted, ethereal quality to garden beds, borders, and floral arrangements. Its elegant, airy texture makes it a favourite for creating contrast, structure, and visual interest in both cottage and contemporary garden designs. Small yellow flowers are typically removed to encourage lush, bushy leaf growth, keeping the focus on its ornamental foliage.

Thriving in full sun and tolerant of heat, drought, and a range of soils, Silverdust pairs beautifully with pastel and vibrant blooms alike. Ideal companions include roses, zinnias, cosmos, snapdragons, and other bright or soft-toned flowers, making it a versatile choice for fresh and dried bouquets. Also known as Silver Ragwort, this tender perennial is usually grown as an annual in cooler climates (Zones 8–10), providing long-lasting, silvery elegance wherever it is planted.

DETAILS:

QTY: 50

TYPE: Annual

SITE: Full Sun

DEPTH: Cover Lightly - Needs light to germinate

GERMINATION: 7-10 days at 22 - 24°C

HEIGHT: 10" - 15”

MATURITY: 56 Days for containers. 88 for foliage

SPACING: 9-12”

PINCH: 6-8"

HOW TO GROW:
Transplant (recommended): Start seeds indoors 8–10 weeks before the last frost. Do not cover seeds, as light is required for germination. A light layer of vermiculite may be applied to help retain moisture. Bottom water or mist gently to avoid displacing the tiny seeds. Once the first true leaves appear, transplant into cell packs or larger containers. Harden off seedlings by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions before transplanting after the last frost.

Direct Seeding (not recommended): Direct seeding is not recommended for Dusty Miller, as starting seeds indoors provides a much better success rate.

Pinching: Pinching the tops of young plants can encourage a bushier habit, though it is not strictly necessary for this naturally mounding plant.

Soil Preference and Watering: Dusty Miller thrives in full sun and requires well-drained soil. It is a drought-tolerant plant once established. Keep foliage as dry as possible and avoid watering late in the day to reduce the risk of Alternaria (leaf spot disease).

Fertilizing: Fertilizing is not required for Dusty Miller. It performs best in average to lean soil.

Harvesting: Dusty Miller is primarily grown for its silvery foliage. Harvest stems as needed for bouquets.