Senna (Senna alexandrina)
Care, watering, light and tips for Senna on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Fabaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Full sun
- Temperature: 5–35 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Senna
Senna alexandrina, commonly known as Alexandrian senna or Egyptian senna, is a shrub from the Fabaceae family, valued for its medicinal properties. It features grayish-green pinnate leaves and produces bright yellow flowers in axillary clusters. This plant is an interesting choice for low-maintenance gardens in warm climates, especially in arid regions or as a standalone specimen.
Native range
Tropical and subtropical Africa, including the Nile Valley
Care tips
It requires full sun for optimal growth and abundant flowering. Watering should be moderate, allowing the substrate to dry out completely between waterings, as it is drought-tolerant. It prefers well-drained, sandy, or stony soils and is not demanding in terms of nutrients. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot and disease development.
How to save a dying Senna
- Warning signs
- Yellowing or browning leaves dropping, soft stems, no flowering.
- First aid
- Check drainage, reduce watering if waterlogged, place in good indirect light.
- What kills it
- Overwatering (root rot) or lack of light (weakens plant, prevents flowering).
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if roots are not completely rotted and care is adjusted promptly.