Groundsel (Senecio vulgaris) is an annual flowering plant native to the United Kingdom, belonging to the Asteraceae family. It is a common and widespread species found in various habitats across the UK, including arable land, wastelands, roadsides, and gardens.

Groundsel typically thrives in nutrient-rich soils and can tolerate a wide range of environmental conditions, from full sun to partial shade. It is often found in disturbed habitats and areas with regular soil disturbances.

Nutrient requirements for Groundsel are moderate, and it can adapt to a variety of soil types, including loamy, clay, and sandy soils.

In terms of predators, Groundsel faces few threats in the UK. Grazing animals such as cattle and sheep may consume it in small quantities, but it is generally avoided due to its bitter taste and toxicity.

The lifespan of Groundsel is relatively short, as it is an annual plant that completes its life cycle within a single growing season. However, it reproduces prolifically by producing large quantities of wind-dispersed seeds.

Culturally, Groundsel does not hold significant references in UK culture. However, it is often considered a weed in gardens and agricultural fields due to its ability to spread rapidly and compete with cultivated plants for nutrients and resources.

An interesting fact about Groundsel is its toxicity to livestock and humans. The plant contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which can cause liver damage if ingested in large quantities. Despite its toxicity, it has been used in traditional medicine for various purposes, including as a treatment for coughs and respiratory ailments. However, caution should be exercised due to its potential health risks.