Water
Water moderately during the growing season, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Reduce watering in winter to prevent waterlogged roots.
Ensure good drainage to avoid root rot, especially in potted plants.
Also known as Akapulko · Andadasi/ Palochina (tagalog) · Candelabra Bush
Emperor's Candlesticks (Senna alata) is a fast-growing shrub with striking yellow, candle-like flower spikes and large, compound leaves.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Prefers at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily for best flowering.
Moderate
50% intensity
Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings; reduce in winter.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Warm
75% intensity
Thrives in temperatures between 18-25°C; protect from frost.
Moderate
50% intensity
Feed during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water moderately during the growing season, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Reduce watering in winter to prevent waterlogged roots.
Ensure good drainage to avoid root rot, especially in potted plants.
Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape and remove dead or damaged branches. Hard pruning can be done in late winter or early spring to encourage bushier growth and more abundant blooms in the next season.
Propagate from seeds sown in spring, or by taking semi-hardwood cuttings in summer. Seeds may require scarification or a period of cold stratification. Cuttings should be rooted in a well-draining medium.
Repot young plants annually in spring. Mature plants can be repotted every 2-3 years or when root-bound. Use a well-draining potting mix, such as a blend of potting soil and perlite or sand.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Emperor's Candlesticks (Senna alata)
Where Emperor's Candlesticks (Senna alata) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Senna |
| Species | Senna alata |
Similar in genus Senna
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
