Smooth senna (Senna sulfurea)

Smooth senna

Admired for its vibrant yellow blooms, smooth senna captivates moths and butterflies, making it a tempting addition to any butterfly garden. Its toughness means it thrives in harsh conditions, providing a pop of color even in dry, abandoned spaces. Intriguingly, its seeds have a unique leathery outer coating that protects them from fire, allowing for regeneration post-wildfires.

Scientific classification

Species

Smooth senna (Senna sulfurea)

Legumes, milkworts and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Evergreen

Leaf type

15 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Smooth senna

Distribution of Smooth senna

Distribution Map

Smooth senna boasts its origin in the tropical regions of Asia and is native to the subcontinent and the Indochina peninsula, extending its presence into southern China. Having spread beyond its native range, it has found new habitats as an introduced species in parts of Oceania and Central America, where it has adapted to the local environments.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Care Guide for Smooth senna

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

15 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Smooth senna thrives in tropical climates, requiring consistent moisture without over-saturation. Weekly watering supports its health. Known for moderate drought tolerance, it benefits from mulching to retain soil moisture during heat, preventing excessive evaporation.

Pruning: Smooth senna thrives with early to late winter pruning, focusing on dead or damaged branches and thinning overcrowded areas for better air circulation. Cutting back leggy growth encourages fullness, promotes blooming, and controls size and shape, making pruning essential for optimal growth and aesthetics.

Propagation: Smooth senna thrives in subtropical climates and can be propagated by cuttings. Choose healthy, semi-mature stems, use rooting hormone, and plant in well-drained media. Maintain consistent moisture and warmth to encourage rooting and produce new plants similar to the parent.

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