African Senna
cassia abbreviata
Also known as: ["Barkless Senna","Umbrella Thorn Senna"]
Overview
A deciduous tree native to Africa, known for its yellow flowers and medicinal uses.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","medicinal use","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Fabales |
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Genus: | Cassia |
| Botanical Name: | Cassia abbreviata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in open, sunny area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: moderate
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter and sand or perlite for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily) in cooler climates; partial shade (4–6 hours) in hot regions to prevent leaf scorch.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually if moving from shade to sun; protect from intense midday sun in arid regions; ensure good air circulation to prevent sunburn.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use shade cloth in extreme heat; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 2–3 weeks during dry periods, more frequently in active growth
Water thoroughly until runoff, allow soil to dry partially between waterings, and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; use raised beds in heavy soils; amend with organic matter for fertility.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F / 18–29°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in tropical to subtropical conditions.
Protect from frost; provide shade in summer; maintain consistent warmth for best growth.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during growing season
Dilute fertilizer to half strength; apply to moist soil to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed; stem cuttings are more reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F / 21–24°C), humid, and bright indirect light with bottom heat if possible.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus potting mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–6 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity; avoid direct sun during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning of branches and light heading back to promote lateral growth.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or diseased growth; focus on structural improvement.
Tools
Sharp bypass pruners, pruning saw for larger branches, gloves.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead/diseased wood; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure drainage holes are present.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even saturation to a depth of 6–8 inches. Allow excess water to drain freely; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth in spring and summer; reduce frequency to every 3–4 weeks in fall and winter when growth slows. Adjust based on rainfall and soil dryness.
Soil Improvement
Add coarse sand, perlite, or compost to enhance drainage and fertility; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf drop in cold stress; wilting or scorching in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Stunted growth, leaf drop, and potential dieback if exposed to prolonged temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a sheltered location or indoors during cold spells; apply a thick mulch layer to insulate roots.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced flowering due to excessive heat and intense sunlight.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade, increase humidity with misting, and water deeply to cool roots.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; fertilize during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer (10-10-10) every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are highly sensitive to the anthraquinone compounds in Cassia abbreviata, which can induce severe gastrointestinal irritation and dehydration upon ingestion.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe plant's anthraquinone compounds can cause severe gastrointestinal upset in dogs, leading to dehydration and electrolyte disturbances if ingested in significant quantities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicCassia abbreviata contains anthraquinone glycosides, which act as potent laxatives and can cause severe gastrointestinal distress. Prolonged or excessive ingestion may lead to electrolyte imbalances and dehydration.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Cassia abbreviata toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: What are the common uses of African Senna?
A: It is used medicinally and attracts wildlife with its flowers.
Q: How drought-tolerant is Cassia abbreviata?
A: It is highly drought-tolerant and suited for arid conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 2–3 weeks during dry p |
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