Senna alata, Cassia alata

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Senna alata is a large shrub or small tree native to South America. In ideal conditions, it can grow up to 5-10 ft tall as a shrub and 10-20 ft as a small tree. To successfully cultivate Senna alata, it is important for the plant to be in full sun with regular waterings. The sun will provide the necessary heat for the yellow and orange flowers to bloom, providing beautiful colors and textures to any landscape.

Senna alata is an ethnomedical plant, meaning it has many medicinal uses. In particular, the antibacterial and antifungal activities of the flowers have been used to treat tinea versicolor and ringworm infections. The beauty of this plant also attracts butterflies, hummingbirds and other pollinators.

When it comes to caring for this plant, Senna alata is a deciduous plant, meaning it will lose its foliage in the fall and winter. During this time, mature plants have proven to be cold hardy, withstanding temperatures as low as 30s F for a short period of time. For colder regions, Senna alata should be grown in pots and winterized, to prevent damage from the cold.

For those looking for a statement plant with medicinal purposes, Senna alata is a great choice. With flowering clusters, bright green foliage and cold hardiness, it's sure to bring life to any existing landscape, as well as provide potential health benefits.

Similar plants:

• Cassia antillana, Senna nitida, Chamaefistula antillana, Cassia aurea (Golden Rain tree)
• Cassia bahamensis, Senna mexicana chapmanii (Bahama Senna, Bahama Cassia)
• Cassia occidentalis, Senna occidentalis, Cassia ligustrina (Coffee Senna, Fedegoso, Privet Cassia)
• Cassia spectabilis, Senna spectabilis, Senna macranthera (Cassia, Scented Shower)
• Senna bicapsularis, Cassia bicapsularis, Cassia sennoides (Butterfly Cassia, Butterfly Bush, Winter Cassia)
• Senna corymbosa, Cassia falcata (Southern Cassia, Flowery Senna, Argentina Senna)
• Senna floribunda, Cassia floribunda (Golden Showy Cassia, Devils Finger)
• Senna multijuga, Cassia multijuga (False Sicklepod)
• Senna polyphylla, Cassia biflora, Cassia microphylla,Cassia polyphylla, Cassia tenuissima, Peiranisia polyphylla (Desert Cassia)
• Senna sp., Cassia sp. (Cassia)