Coffee senna (Senna occidentalis)

Coffee senna

Also known as: Mogdad Coffee, Stephanie Coffee, Styptic weed, Coffeeweed

Coffee senna (*Senna occidentalis*) is a perennial shrub that prefers warm and humid environments. It is sometimes considered an invasive weed that grows in open woodlands, waste areas, and roadsides. It blooms in spring with yellow flowers, followed by brown fruit in late summer and early fall. Seeds can be used as a coffee substitute, although it does not contain caffeine.

Scientific classification

Species

Coffee senna (Senna occidentalis)

Legumes, milkworts and allies

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Annual, Perennial

Lifespan

Herb, Shrub

Plant Type

Green

Leaf Color

2.5 cm to 5 cm

Flower Size

Yellow

Flower Color

Deciduous

Leaf type

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Coffee senna

Distribution of Coffee senna

Distribution Map

Coffee senna flourishes in a wide range of tropical and subtropical regions across several continents. Native to extensive areas in Central and South America, parts of sub-Saharan Africa, and South Asia, coffee senna has also been introduced to regions in the Middle East and islands in the Pacific. In some territories outside its native range, such as parts of Africa, Asia, and Oceania, coffee senna may have an impact on ecosystems, being considered invasive because it establishes itself readily in various habitats and potentially competes with local plant life.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Roadsides, waste areas, disturbed sites, pastures, grasslands, open woodlands, coastal environs

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Toxicity

Coffee senna poses a severe health risk to humans, dogs, and cats, with all parts, especially the seeds, being toxic upon ingestion. Contains potent anthraquinones and toxalbumins, causing gastrointestinal distress, liver/kidney damage, and severe symptoms. Immediate medical attention is critical to address poisoning in pets and humans. Avoid consumption to prevent severe poisoning risks.

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Quickly Identify Coffee senna

Erect herbaceous form, up to 3 feet (91 cm) tall.

Compound leaves with 4-5 pairs of lanceolate leaflets.

Bright yellow flowers with 5 sepals and 5 petals.

Distinctive elongated dark brown pods, 4-4.7 inches (10-12 cm) long.

Light green stout stem, up to 2 inches (5 cm) in diameter.

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Care Guide for Coffee senna

Every 2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Coffee senna flourishes in tropical-like conditions, needing consistently moist yet well-drained soil to avoid root rot. It is moderately drought-tolerant, with a watering schedule of once every two weeks. Typically grown outdoors, coffee senna benefits from rainwater during its growing season.

Fertilize: For optimal health, coffee senna benefits from biannual fertilization in spring and fall using high phosphorus fertilizers to boost root and bloom development. Adjust dosage based on size and avoid over-fertilization. Apply after rain or watering for nutrient absorption and safety precautions include wearing gloves.

Pruning: Coffee senna thrives with early to mid-spring pruning to shape and remove dead branches, fostering new growth. Good air circulation and sunlight are crucial for disease prevention. Regular pruning enhances density and appearance. Use clean, sharp tools for maintenance, according to trusted horticultural guidelines.

Propagation: Native to tropical regions, coffee senna features lush foliage and bright yellow flowers. Propagation requires sowing seeds in well-draining soil, ensuring sunlight and moisture without waterlogging. Thinning young plants prevents overcrowding, promoting healthy growth.

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