Contents
Description
Senna Tora, also known as sickle senna or foetid cassia, is a fast-growing annual herb that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is native to Southeast Asia but is now widely distributed in tropical regions worldwide. The plant is characterized by its upright stem, which can grow up to 1.5 meters tall, and its yellow flowers that bloom in clusters. The plant produces elongated seed pods that are about 15 cm in length and contain numerous seeds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Senna |
| Species | Senna tora |
Appearance
The leaves of Senna Tora are compound and have 3-4 pairs of leaflets that are oval-shaped and about 2.5 cm long. The plant’s flowers are bright yellow and grow in clusters that are about 10 cm long. The flowers have five petals and are about 1 cm in diameter. The seed pods are elongated and have a curved shape resembling a sickle. The pods are green when immature and turn brown when ripe. The seeds are small, black, and kidney-shaped.
Care Guide
Senna Tora is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips to keep your plant healthy:
Water: Water your plant regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Fertilization: Fertilize your plant every two weeks using a balanced fertilizer.
Soil: Senna Tora prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Sunlight: The plant thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Hardiness Zones: Senna Tora grows best in USDA hardiness zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Senna Tora is relatively pest-resistant, but it can be susceptible to spider mites and aphids. The plant can also be affected by fungal infections like powdery mildew and root rot. To prevent these issues, ensure that your plant is not overwatered and is planted in well-draining soil. If you notice any signs of pests or diseases, treat the plant with appropriate pesticides or fungicides.
Habitat
Senna Tora is native to Southeast Asia but has been introduced to other tropical regions worldwide. It is commonly found in fields, waste places, and along roadsides. The plant can grow in a range of soil types and can tolerate drought conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: What are the medicinal uses of Senna Tora?
A: Senna Tora has been used in traditional medicine to treat skin diseases, constipation, and fever.
Q: Can Senna Tora be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Senna Tora can be grown indoors if provided with bright light and warm temperatures.
Q: Can Senna Tora be used as a natural pesticide?
A: Yes, Senna Tora has insecticidal properties and can be used as a natural pesticide.
Q: Is Senna Tora toxic to pets?
A: Yes, Senna Tora is toxic to pets if ingested.
Related Plants
- Senna alata
- Senna obtusifolia
- Senna occidentalis
- Senna bicapsularis
References
- “Senna tora.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 9 February 2022. <https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c305>.
- “Senna tora.” Plant Village. Accessed 9 February 2022. <https://www.plantvillage.org/en/topics/senna-tora/description>.
- “Senna tora.” World Agroforestry. Accessed 9 February 2022. <https://www.worldagroforestry.org/treedb2/AFTPDFS/Senna_tora.PDF>.
