Fabaceae
Senna (Genus) – Complete Care Guide
Senna
Full sun, drought-tolerant once established. Water every 7 days. Well-draining soil. Best in outdoor zones 9–12.
Every 7 days
Direct sun
10° - 38°C
30% - 60%
Categories
What is Senna / Cassia (genus)?
Senna / Cassia (genus) (Senna) is a easy-care plant from the Fabaceae family. Senna is a large genus of flowering plants in the family Fabaceae, comprising around 350 species found across tropical and subtropical regions. Notable ornamental species include Senna alata (candle bush) and S. didymobotrya, prized for their bold yellow flower spikes. Seeds and leaves contain anthr...
Senna / Cassia (genus) grows up to watering every 7 days, with 10°C – 38°C, 30–60% humidity. It is not suitable for indoor environments and not safe for pets.
Unlike many tropical plants, Senna / Cassia (genus) tolerates watering mistakes. Best for beginners. Without precautions, ingestion can cause irritation in pets. Keep out of reach of cats and dogs.
How to Care for Senna / Cassia (genus)?
TLDR: Senna / Cassia (genus) needs Direct sun, watering every 7 days, and temperatures between 10-38°C with 30-60% humidity.
How Often Should You Water Senna / Cassia (genus)?
Water every 7 days; drought-tolerant once established. Avoid waterlogged soil.
How Much Light Does Senna / Cassia (genus) Need?
Requires full sun (6+ hours daily). Poor performance in shade.
What Is the Best Soil for Senna / Cassia (genus)?
Well-draining, slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6.0–7.5). Tolerates poor soils.
Care Schedule
Fertilize
Every 14 days
Misting
Every 3 days
Rotate
Every 7 days
Repot
Every 365 days
What Is Senna / Cassia (genus) and Where Does It Come From?
Senna is a large genus of flowering plants in the family Fabaceae, comprising around 350 species found across tropical and subtropical regions. Notable ornamental species include Senna alata (candle bush) and S. didymobotrya, prized for their bold yellow flower spikes. Seeds and leaves contain anthraquinones with a laxative effect.
How Big Does Senna / Cassia (genus) Grow?
TLDR: Senna / Cassia (genus) can reach up to ?cm tall with Medium growth rate.
Growth rate
Medium
Foliage
Deciduous
Warning: Toxic Plant
This plant can be toxic if ingested. Keep out of reach of:
Plant Uses
Ornamental
Great for decoration
Medicinal
Medicinal properties
Is your plant showing symptoms?
Click on the symptom to discover possible causes:
What Diseases Commonly Affect Senna / Cassia (genus)?
TLDR: Senna / Cassia (genus) is susceptible to 4 known diseases. Monitor regularly for early detection.
Root Rot
Root rot is a serious fungal disease that affects the root system of plants, causing them to decay and die. It is primarily caused by overwatering, poor drainage, or soil-borne fungi such as Pythium, Phytophthora, Rhizoctonia, and Fusarium. The disease thrives in waterlogged conditions where roots are deprived of oxygen, making them susceptible to fungal infection.
Leaf Spot
Leaf spot is a common fungal disease caused by various pathogens including Alternaria, Ascochyta, Colletotrichum, Septoria, and Venturia. It primarily affects leaves, causing discolored spots that can lead to premature leaf drop if left untreated.
Caterpillars
Caterpillars are the larval stage of moths and butterflies that feed voraciously on plant foliage, stems, flowers, and fruits. Common species include cabbage loopers, tomato hornworms, armyworms, and cutworms. These pests can cause extensive damage by consuming large amounts of plant tissue in a short time. They vary in size from small (1/4 inch) to large (5 inches), with colors ranging from green to brown, often featuring stripes or spots. Caterpillars are highly mobile and can quickly spread throughout gardens, making them one of the most destructive common pests.
Aphids
Aphids are small, soft-bodied, pear-shaped insects (1/16 to 1/8 inch long) that feed by sucking nutrient-rich sap from plants. They reproduce rapidly and can quickly weaken plants, causing distorted growth and transmitting plant viruses. Aphids come in various colors including green, black, red, yellow, brown, and gray. They secrete honeydew, a sticky substance that attracts ants and encourages sooty mold growth.
Fun Facts
The Senna genus includes roughly 350 tropical and subtropical species.
Senna alata is used in traditional medicine to treat fungal skin infections.
Bright yellow flower spikes attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
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