Kleinia fulgens, commonly known as Coral Ragwort or Scarlet Kleinia, is a stunning succulent plant native to Africa. It is highly prized for its glaucous-green foliage and the profusion of vibrant scarlet flowers that bloom from late fall to mid-winter. This makes it an excellent choice for containers or garden displays.
Taxonomy of Kleinia fulgens
Scientific Name
Kleinia fulgens Hook.fil.
Synonym(s)
Notonia fulgens, Notoniopsis fulgens, Senecio fulgens
Common Name(s)
Coral Ragwort, Coral Senecio, Scarlet Kleinia
Scientific Classification
Family: Asteraceae
Subfamily: Asteroideae
Tribe: Senecioneae
Subtribe: Senecioninae
Genus: Kleinia
Etymology
The generic name "Kleinia" (pronounced "KLINE-ee-uh") honors Jacob Theodor Klein🡕 (1685–1759), also known as Plinius Gedanensium, a German jurist, historian, botanist, zoologist, mathematician, and diplomat in the service of Polish King August II the Strong.
The specific epithet "fulgens" (pronounced "FUL-jenz") means "shining" or "glittering" and refers to the vibrant scarlet color of the flowers of this species.
Description
Kleinia fulgens, also known as Senecio fulgens, is a small succulent plant with creeping rootstock and erect or ascending, cylindrical stems, which are brittle and bear succulent leaves. It can grow up to 2 feet (60 cm) tall and typically branches near the base, where it is also most leafy. The leaves are glaucous green, inversely lance-shaped, and have margins that are either entire or coarsely and irregularly toothed in the expanded part. They can measure up to 4.8 inches (12 cm) long and 1.4 inches (3.5 cm) wide.
From late fall to mid-winter, Kleinia fulgens produces attractive flower heads of densely crowded scarlet florets, sometimes orange-scarlet or nearly crimson. The flower heads can reach 1 inch (2.5 cm) in length and 1.2 inches (3 cm) in diameter, and usually appear in loose terminal clusters or, rarely, solitary on long stalks.
Origin
Kleinia fulgens is native to the Democratic Republic of Congo, Angola, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Eswatini, and South Africa. It grows in valley woodland and scrub, mainly on rocky cliff ledges and steep rocky slopes at elevations between 3,540 and 4,265 feet (1,080 and 1,300 m).
How to Grow and Care for Kleinia fulgens
Light: Kleinia fulgens thrives in bright, indirect sunlight or light dappled shade. It can tolerate early-morning sun but should be protected from harsh midday sun in summer to prevent leaf scorch. Indoors, a window with filtered light is ideal.
Soil: Well-draining soil is essential for healthy growth. Use a commercial potting mix designed for succulents, or make your own.
Temperature: Like most succulents, Kleinia fulgens tolerates drought and heat but does not tolerate cold temperatures well. It is hardy in USDA Plant Hardiness Zones 10a-11b, which have average annual extreme minimum winter temperatures ranging from 20°F to 50°F (-1.1°C to 10°C).
Watering: During the growing season, water the plant thoroughly, then let the soil dry completely before watering again. In winter, when the plant becomes somewhat dormant, reduce watering significantly.
Fertilizing: Be cautious, as too much fertilizer can cause leggy growth. Feed only during the growing season with a dilute solution of a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer.
Repotting: This plant does not require frequent repotting. Repot every 2 to 3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. When repotting, choose a pot only slightly larger and make sure it has drainage holes.
Propagation: You can easily propagate Kleinia fulgens from stem cuttings during the growing season. You can also propagate it from seed when available. The best time to take cuttings and sow seeds is in late spring and early summer.
Learn more in "How to Grow and Care for Senecio."
Toxicity of Kleinia fulgens
Kleinia fulgens is generally non-toxic; however, keep it out of reach of children and pets.
Photo Gallery
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Internal Links
- Explore all plants within the genus Kleinia.
- Explore all plants within the family Asteraceae.
References
- Curtis's Botanical Magazine, Vol. 92, tab. 5590 (1866).
- Kleinia fulgens Hook.f.🡕. Plants of the World Online. Kew Science. Retrieved December 4, 2025.
- Kleinia fulgens Hook.f.🡕. World Flora Online. Retrieved December 4, 2025.
- Coral Ragwort (Kleinia fulgens)🡕. iNaturalist. Retrieved December 4, 2025.