Water
Water Alexandrian Senna regularly, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Avoid waterlogging, as this can lead to root rot.
Reduce watering significantly during cooler months when the plant's growth slows.
Also known as Bombay Senna · Casse · Congo Senna
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans. See toxicity details.
Alexandrian Senna (Senna alexandrina) is a flowering shrub native to North Africa and the Arabian Peninsula, primarily cultivated for its medicinal properties.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Prefers bright, direct sunlight for at least 6-8 hours a day.
Moderate
50% intensity
Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings. Avoid overwatering.
Well-drained, sandy or loamy soils.
50% intensity
Warm
75% intensity
Thrives in temperatures between 20-30°C. Protect from frost.
Low
25% intensity
Feed sparingly during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 5/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Contains anthraquinones which can cause gastrointestinal upset, cramps, and diarrhea if ingested. Leaves and pods are primarily used medicinally.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water Alexandrian Senna regularly, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Avoid waterlogging, as this can lead to root rot.
Reduce watering significantly during cooler months when the plant's growth slows.
Prune Alexandrian Senna to maintain its shape and encourage bushier growth. Remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches.
Light pruning can be done in spring before new growth begins, and heavier pruning after flowering if needed.
Alexandrian Senna can be propagated from seeds or cuttings. Seeds should be scarified or soaked before sowing in spring.
Semi-hardwood cuttings can be taken in summer and treated with rooting hormone before planting in a well-draining medium.
Repot Alexandrian Senna every 2-3 years, or when it becomes root-bound. Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one and use a well-draining potting mix.
Repotting is best done in early spring before the active growing season begins.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Alexandrian Senna (Senna alexandrina)
Where Alexandrian Senna (Senna alexandrina) 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 alexandrina |
Similar in genus Senna
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
