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Description
Senna Surattensis, commonly known as the Yellow Shower Tree, is a flowering plant that belongs to the Fabaceae family. This plant is native to Southeast Asia and can grow up to 10 meters tall. It is well-known for its bright yellow flowers that bloom in clusters and are shaped like a shower head. The Yellow Shower Tree is commonly used as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks because of its stunning blooms and easy care.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Tracheophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Fabales |
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Genus: | Senna |
Appearance
The Senna Surattensis has a unique appearance that distinguishes it from other plants. Its leaves are dark green and pinnate, with each leaf having 4-6 pairs of leaflets. The plant’s flowers are bright yellow, and they appear in clusters that can grow up to 50 cm long. The flowers are also fragrant, which makes them attractive to pollinators such as bees and butterflies. The plant’s fruit is a long, flat, and brown pod that contains several seeds.
Care Guide
The Yellow Shower Tree is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips on how to care for this beautiful plant:
Water: The Yellow Shower Tree prefers well-drained soil and requires moderate watering. It is important to water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering during the winter months.
Fertilization: The plant requires regular fertilization to thrive. Fertilize the plant every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer that is rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
Soil: The Yellow Shower Tree prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil types, but it is important to avoid soil that is too alkaline or too acidic.
Sunlight: The plant requires full sun to grow well. It can tolerate partial shade, but it may not bloom as well in such conditions.
Hardiness Zones: The Yellow Shower Tree can grow in USDA hardiness zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Yellow Shower Tree is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it is important to watch out for the following:
Aphids: These are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the plant’s sap. They can be controlled using natural predators such as ladybugs, lacewings, and parasitic wasps.
Spider mites: These are small, reddish-brown insects that feed on the plant’s leaves, causing them to become yellow and dry. They can be controlled using insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Fungal diseases: The Yellow Shower Tree is susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and leaf spot. These can be controlled using fungicides or by improving air circulation around the plant.
Habitat
The Yellow Shower Tree is native to Southeast Asia and can be found in countries such as India, Sri Lanka, and Thailand. It prefers tropical and subtropical climates and can grow in a variety of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and coastal areas. The plant is commonly used as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks, but it can also be found growing in the wild.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Yellow Shower Tree a fast-growing plant?
A: Yes, the Yellow Shower Tree can grow up to 10 meters tall in just a few years.
Q: Can the Yellow Shower Tree be grown in a pot?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in a pot, but it may not grow as tall as it would in the ground.
Q: How often should I fertilize the Yellow Shower Tree?
A: Fertilize the plant every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer that is rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
Q: Can the Yellow Shower Tree tolerate drought?
A: The plant prefers moderate watering and may not tolerate prolonged drought.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants that are similar to the Yellow Shower Tree:
- Senna alexandrina
- Senna alata
- Senna bicapsularis
- Senna didymobotrya
References
- “Senna surattensis.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 10 May 2021. <https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c909>
- “Senna surattensis.” PlantNet. Accessed 10 May 2021. <https://www.gbif.org/species/2964284>
- “Yellow Shower Tree (Senna surattensis).” Gardening Know How. Accessed 10 May 2021. <https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/shower-trees/yellow-shower-tree.htm>
