Scorpion Senna

coronilla scorpioides

Also known as: ["Scorpion Senna","Scorpioides Coronilla"]

Family: Fabaceae Genus: Coronilla Category: Shrubs

Overview

A deciduous shrub native to Europe and parts of Asia, known for its scorpion-tail-like inflorescences and yellow flowers.

Benefits & Perks

["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Fabales
Family: Fabaceae
Genus: Coronilla
Botanical Name: Coronilla scorpioides

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Shrubs
  • Suitable Location: outdoor garden in a sunny, open position
  • Suitable For:
    Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–15–35°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
  • Misting: rarely required
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter; mimics natural habitat.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • 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/day); tolerates partial shade but blooms best in direct sunlight.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually if moving from shade to sun; protect from intense midday heat in summer; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor drainage or incorrect soil conditions.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

full sun

Full sun exposure; rotate pot for even growth; avoid deep shade.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Water deeply but infrequently; ensure excellent drainage; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.

Soil

well-drained, sandy loam

pH: Slightly alkaline to neutral (pH 6.5–7.5).

Use sandy soil; ensure fast drainage; avoid heavy clay mixes.

Temperature

Hardy in USDA zones 4–8; tolerates temperatures down to -20°C (-4°F); prefers mild summers but can withstand heat.

Protect from frost; water less in winter; provide shade in extreme summer heat.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer

Use a balanced fertilizer; dilute to half strength; fertilize only in growing season.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or division; seeds can also be used but may take longer to establish.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in rooting hormone.
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Keep moist and warm.

Best Time: Late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.

Medium

Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.

Hormone

Optional but recommended for faster rooting.

Timeline

Roots may appear in 3–4 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.

Quick Tips

Use sterile tools; keep cuttings humid; avoid direct sun during rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Cut back leggy stems; thin out crowded areas; shape as desired.

Pruning Plan

Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or weak growth.

Tools

Pruning shears, sharp knife, gloves.

Checklist

Disinfect tools; prune before new growth; remove dead wood; shape evenly.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before active growth starts.

Pot Size

Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; avoid oversized pots.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; repot in fresh, well-draining soil; ensure good drainage.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for younger plants to encourage growth.

Checklist

Use fresh soil; check root health; ensure drainage; water lightly after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil dryness; water deeply; ensure drainage; reduce winter watering.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water thoroughly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture without waterlogging. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a long spout to direct water precisely to the soil, avoiding wetting the leaves.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce watering significantly in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Chlorosis or leaf drop in extreme cold; wilting or scorching in excessive heat.

Cold Stress

Leaves may curl or drop; growth slows or halts; roots can freeze in poorly drained soil.

Solution: Mulch heavily in winter; protect roots from frost; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.

Hot Stress

Wilting, scorching of leaves, or reduced flowering; may go partially dormant in extreme heat.

Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase humidity; water deeply but infrequently; avoid fertilizing during heat stress.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; apply in spring/summer only; avoid winter feeding.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize once in early spring and once mid-summer; avoid fertilizing in fall or winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Coronilla scorpioides may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Coronilla scorpioides can result from water stress, either due to drought or overwatering, leading to reduced turgor pressure and impaired nutrient uptake.

Leaf spots on Coronilla scorpioides may be caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, leading to reduced photosynthetic efficiency and potential defoliation.

Rotting, particularly root rot, can occur in Coronilla scorpioides due to excessive moisture or fungal infections, causing decay of root tissues and eventual plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats may experience mild gastrointestinal symptoms if they ingest parts of Coronilla scorpioides. The plant's toxicity is generally low, but caution is advised.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea loss of appetite
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds leaves
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep plants away from cats. Seek veterinary advice if ingestion is suspected.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

In dogs, ingestion of Coronilla scorpioides can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant's effects are typically not severe but can cause discomfort.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds leaves
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Monitor pets closely if ingestion is suspected. Contact a veterinarian if symptoms persist.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Coronilla scorpioides contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and other mild symptoms upon ingestion. The plant's physiological impact is generally limited to the digestive system.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting diarrhea abdominal pain
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds leaves
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid ingestion of any parts of the plant. Keep out of reach of children.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Coronilla scorpioides toxic to pets?

A: Reliable information on toxicity to pets is not available.

Q: How often should Coronilla scorpioides be watered?

A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.

Q: Does Coronilla scorpioides attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its fragrant flowers.

Quick Reference
Family: Fabaceae
Care: moderate
Light: full sun
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Get Expert Care Tips

Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!

Google Play App Store
Share This Plant

Related Plants

Stinking Toe, Jatoba, Courbaril
View
Surinam Mimosa
View
Knob Thorn
View
Guapuruvu
View