Senecio is a genus of the daisy family (Asteraceae) that includes ragworts and groundsels. The flower heads are normally rayed, completely yellow, and the heads are borne in branched clusters. Senecio is one of the largest genera of flowering plants, and despite the separation of many species into other genera it still contains over 1000 species of varied form, including leaf, stem and tuber succulents, annuals, perennials, aquatics, climbers, shrubs and small trees. Some species produce natural biocides (especially alkaloids) to deter or even kill animals that would eat them.

Senecio barbertonicus is a compact rounded evergreen shrub to 1m in diameter with cylindrical succulent leaves and bright yellow clusters of sweetly scented flowers during winter. It is named after one of its native localities, Barberton. The Painted Lady butterfly, Vanessa cardui in particular, is attracted to the yellow tufted flower heads. This plant is hardy to at least -4°C.

The plant has a short flowering period, mostly during winter, but its evergreen succulent nature makes it a useful garden plant as well as an easy to grow indoor pot plant. It is a good addition to a butterfly garden, attracting particularly the Painted Lady butterflies for nectar. Because it is resistant to drought, Senecio barbertonicus is very suitable for water wise gardens.