Silver Senna (Senna artemisioides)

Silver Senna

Also known as: Silver Cassia

An Australian native, silver Senna is not only beautiful but so tough that it can grow as an understory plant to Eucalyptus and gum trees, which alter soil pH so much that almost nothing else can grow near them. This tree has some other unusual characteristics: it grows larger in dry shade than in full sun, and it yellows if given too much water instead of not enough.

Scientific classification

Species

Silver Senna (Senna artemisioides)

Legumes, milkworts and allies

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Shrub

Plant Type

Late spring, Summer

Harvest Time

3 m

Plant Height

2 m

Spread

Green, Gray, Silver

Leaf Color

2.5 cm

Flower Size

Green, Brown

Fruit Color

Yellow

Flower Color

Green

Stem Color

Evergreen

Leaf type

Images of Silver Senna

Distribution of Silver Senna

Distribution Map

Silver Senna is native to arid and semi-arid regions of the Southern Hemisphere, particularly in Australasia. It has been introduced to various parts of the world, adapting to regions with Mediterranean and subtropical climates. The species is cultivated in areas beyond its natural range, thriving in a variety of non-native environments.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Rocky slopes, disturbed areas

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Quickly Identify Silver Senna

Feathery, light gray-green pinnate leaves create delicate appearance.

Clusters of fragrant, yellow, pea-like flowers bloom in late winter to spring.

Fruiting phase includes lime green to dark brown flattened pea pods.

Thrives in full sun with well-draining soil, showcasing drought tolerance.

Rounded form reaches 4-6 feet tall (120-180 cm), requiring sparse watering.

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Care Guide for Silver Senna

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

15 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Adapted to arid conditions, silver Senna thrives on minimal moisture with strong drought tolerance. It should be watered infrequently, about once every 1-2 weeks, and requires well-draining soil to prevent root water accumulation, aligning with its native environment's sporadic rainfall.

Pruning: Silver Senna thrives with early to late winter pruning, promoting bushier growth and better air circulation. Use light trimming for shape and substantial cuts for dead branches. Avoid heavy pruning during active growth to reduce stress, ensuring the plant's health and structure is maintained.

Propagation: Native to arid regions, silver Senna prefers well-drained soils and propagates well through cuttings. Use healthy semi-wood segments, apply rooting hormone, and plant in sandy mix while maintaining moisture. A warm environment aids root establishment before transplanting to a garden setting.

Repotting: Repot silver Senna every 2-3 years in spring using a slightly larger, well-draining container to promote growth. Ensure consistent watering and full sunlight for recovery. Avoid compacted soils to maintain silver Senna's striking silver foliage and overall health.

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Common Pests & Diseases

Leafhopper Yellow edges Mealybug Lace bug Caterpillar Thrips Dodder Scale insect Dark blotch Weevil Lichen Whitefly Leaf yellowing Moss Leaf beetle Leaf tip withering Spider mite Aphid

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