Often, it is the plants that appear inconspicuous at first glance that are able to spread and establish themselves successfully. One example is groundsel or old-man-in-the-spring (Senecio vulgaris), which grows in many locations but is often overlooked.
Its formula for success is easy to explain: a little bit of everything, but not too much of anything. In addition, all parts of the plant are poisonous.
This plant, which belongs to the Asteraceae family, needs very little to survive: moist soil, a little light, and the occasional gust of wind ensure its survival and spread.
The annual groundsel can also bloom in winter, pollinates itself, and spreads its seeds through the wind.
The seeds germinate quickly, with the first cotyledons visible after just three days.
In suboptimal locations, Senecio vulgaris remains small and quickly produces new seeds, which hopefully have a better chance of finding an optimal location.
Groundsel thrives best in sunny habitats with evenly moist and nutrient-rich soil.
However, it also grows in partial shade, on walls, stairs, construction sites, along or in paths, in fields, and in gardens. It is widespread almost worldwide and is believed to originate in North Africa, North Asia, and Europe.
I have not yet observed groundsel being eaten by snails. Nor have I seen its flowers being pollinated by bees or flies.
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