Popcorn Senna
cassia didymobotrya
Also known as: ["Popcorn Plant","Winged Senna"]
Overview
A tropical shrub known for its distinctive yellow flowers that emit a popcorn-like fragrance and its compound pinnate leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Fabales |
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Genus: | Cassia |
| Botanical Name: | Cassia didymobotrya |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in warm climates, or large container in cooler regions
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: moderate
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter; can tolerate sandy soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning can be done anytime; major pruning in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; can handle significant pruning but avoid removing more than one-third of the plant at once
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but may become leggy.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually if moving from shade to sun; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh sun; avoid placing near reflective surfaces that intensify light.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a cactus or succulent mix as a base; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Warm temperatures (65–85°F / 18–29°C); thrives in tropical to subtropical climates; sensitive to frost.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain stable warmth year-round.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing if plant shows signs of stress.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seeds; stem cuttings are more reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- 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 but indirect light; protect from direct sun.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix (e.g., perlite and peat moss) or water for initial rooting.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster and more reliable rooting.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth may appear in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium, plastic wrap (for humidity).
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean cuts just above a leaf node or branch junction; remove crossing or crowded branches.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape the plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and health.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, leaf drop, stunted growth, or wilting in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Stops growth; leaves may turn yellow or brown; can die if exposed to frost.
Solution: Move indoors during cold spells; provide a heat source if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C); use frost cloth for outdoor protection.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering in excessive heat; may drop leaves to conserve water.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting; ensure consistent watering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growing season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; monitor plant response.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are highly sensitive to the toxic compounds in Cassia didymobotrya. Ingestion can result in severe gastrointestinal irritation and systemic toxicity, potentially leading to organ damage.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe plant contains compounds that can cause significant gastrointestinal upset in dogs, leading to dehydration and electrolyte imbalance due to severe diarrhea and vomiting.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicCassia didymobotrya contains anthraquinone glycosides, which are known to have purgative and irritant effects on the gastrointestinal tract. Ingestion can lead to severe gastrointestinal distress and potential systemic toxicity.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Cassia didymobotrya toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: Why is it called the Popcorn Plant?
A: Its flowers emit a fragrance similar to that of popcorn.
Q: How should I care for Cassia didymobotrya?
A: It requires moderate watering, full sun, and well-drained soil.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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