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What is the difference between Senecio macroglossus and ivy? A quick guide to tell them apart

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Leaf differences: Senecio macroglossus has alternate leaves that are fleshy and dark green; ivy leaves are elliptical-lanceolate, dark green on the upper surface and light green or pale yellow-green beneath. Flower differences: Senecio macroglossus has small creamy white flowers with yellow centers; ivy flowers grow in umbels and are pale yellowish-white or pale greenish-white.

I. Leaf differences

Senecio macroglossus has alternate leaves with petioles; the blades are fleshy and very brittle, breaking easily, dark green in color with pale veins on the surface.

Ivy has simple, alternate leaves with petioles 2 to 9 cm long and scaly; the leaves are elliptical-lanceolate, narrowly elliptic-ovate or lanceolate, with entire margins, long-pointed or tapering tips, and wedge-shaped, broadly rounded or heart-shaped bases; the upper surface is dark green and glossy, while the underside is light green or pale yellow-green.

II. Flower differences

Senecio macroglossus has small creamy white flowers with yellow centers.

Ivy flowers grow in umbels, either solitary at the top or arranged in panicles, 1.5 to 2.5 cm in diameter, usually with 5 to 40 flowers; the flowers are triangular-ovate, about 3 to 3.5 mm long, and pale yellowish-white or pale greenish-white.

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