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Description
Senna Artemisioides, also known as Silver Senna, is a species of flowering plant in the family Fabaceae. It is native to Australia and can grow up to 2 meters tall. The plant has thin, silvery-green leaves and produces bright yellow flowers in clusters. The flowers have five petals and are about 2 cm in diameter with prominent stamens. The plant blooms from late winter to early summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Senna |
Appearance
The Silver Senna has a unique appearance with its silvery-green leaves that are around 10 cm long and 2 cm wide. The leaves are made up of numerous smaller leaflets that give the plant a feathery appearance. The flowers are bright yellow and grow in clusters at the end of branches. The plant produces a long, slender seed pod that contains several seeds. The seed pods are around 15 cm long and 1 cm wide and turn brown when mature.
Care Guide
The Silver Senna is a hardy plant that grows well in most soils and conditions. It requires moderate watering and fertilization during the growing season. The plant prefers well-draining soil and full sun exposure. It is hardy in zones 9-11 and can tolerate mild frost. To care for your Silver Senna, follow these tips:
- Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season.
- Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
- Plant the Silver Senna in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Provide full sun exposure for optimal growth and flowering.
- Protect the plant from extreme heat and cold.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Silver Senna is generally pest and disease-free, but it can occasionally be affected by spider mites, thrips, and caterpillars. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant may also be susceptible to root rot if overwatered or planted in poorly draining soil. To avoid root rot, plant the Silver Senna in well-draining soil and allow the soil to dry out between waterings.
Habitat
The Silver Senna is native to Australia and can be found in a variety of habitats, including open woodlands, heathlands, and sand dunes. The plant is adapted to dry, sandy soils and can tolerate drought conditions. It is often used in landscaping for its unique appearance and hardiness.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Silver Senna a perennial or annual plant?
A: The Silver Senna is a perennial plant that can live for several years.
Q: Does the Silver Senna attract bees and butterflies?
A: Yes, the bright yellow flowers of the Silver Senna are attractive to bees and butterflies.
Q: Can the Silver Senna be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the Silver Senna can be grown in containers as long as the container has good drainage and the plant receives adequate sunlight and water.
Q: How often should I prune my Silver Senna?
A: The Silver Senna does not require frequent pruning, but it can be pruned in late winter or early spring to maintain its shape and promote flowering.
Related Plants
- Senna bicapsularis
- Senna corymbosa
- Senna didymobotrya
- Senna multijuga
References
- “Senna Artemisioides.” Australian Native Plants Society (Australia), 2021, www.anpsa.org.au/s-art.html.
- “Senna Artemisioides.” PlantNet, www.plantnet.org/en/illustration/senna-artemisioides.
- “Senna Artemisioides.” Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria, 2021, https://www.rbg.vic.gov.au/plants/plant-id/guide-to-plants/senna-artemisioides
