Definition

Noun: * A widespread European weed with yellow daisylike flowers; known to be toxic to livestock, especially cattle, if eaten in large quantities. This term refers specifically to a species of flowering plant in the genus Senecio.

Usage and Examples

• Noun:
  • The field was covered in the bright yellow blooms of Senecio jacobaea.
  • Farmers must manage pastures carefully to control Senecio jacobaea, as it is poisonous to grazing animals.

Advanced Usage

• In botanical and agricultural contexts: The name is used formally to identify the specific plant species. It is often discussed in relation to pasture management, toxicology, and ecology.
  • The study focused on the alkaloid content of Senecio jacobaea.

Variants and Related Words

• Common Ragwort (n): The most widely used common name for this plant in English.
• Jacobaea vulgaris (n): A current botanical synonym for the same species.
• Tansy Ragwort (n): Another common name, particularly used in North America.
• Stinking Willie (n): A regional/common name used in some areas, particularly the United Kingdom.

Synonyms

• Ragwort: A general term often used interchangeably, though it can refer to other related species.
• Benweed: A less common regional name.

Notes on Meaning

• The primary meaning is as a specific plant species. Its notoriety stems from two key characteristics: its status as a prolific weed in many regions and its toxicity due to pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which can cause liver damage in animals.

Noun

1. widespread European weed having yellow daisylike flowers; sometimes an obnoxious weed and toxic to cattle if consumed in quantity