
Senna hebecarpa
Wild Senna
Wild Senna is a wildflower native to North America that boasts bright yellow flowers and plays a crucial role in supporting local pollinators.
Description:
Bright yellow flowers bloom from July to August on Senna hebecarpa, also known as Wild Senna. The plant thrives in well-drained soils with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0 and has a medium tolerance to drought. Although it’s not a preferred choice for deer, it does have some deer resistance. Its bushy growth reaches a height of 3 to 6 feet, and it spreads to a width of 3 to 4 feet, making it suitable for the back of borders or naturalized areas. The vibrant yellow flowers attract various pollinators such as butterflies and bees, and it serves as a host plant for certain caterpillars, including Sulphur Butterflies. Senna hebecarpa is a perennial shrub that’s hardy in USDA zones 4 through 8. Its low salt tolerance makes it less suitable for areas with significant salt exposure, such as coastal regions or places where road salt is common. Ideal for meadows, gardens, or open woods, Wild Senna’s medium growth rate and native status make it a valuable addition to many landscapes.
Plant Details:
Plant Type: Perennial, Shrub
New Jersey Native: Yes
Bloom Times: Summer, Late Summer to Fall
Bloom Colors: Yellow
Deer Resistance: Some
Attracts Pollinators and Wildlife: Bees and Other Pollinators, Butterflies
Salt Tolerance: Low to None
Hardiness Zone: 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b
Physiographic Region: All Regions in NJ
Soil Characteristics
Soil Type: Loam, Organic, Sandy, Clay
Soil Moisture: Dry, Moist, Wet
Soil pH: Slightly Acidic, Neutral
Light Needs of Plant
Light Range: Full Sun, Partial Shade
Water Needs of Plant
Soil Moisture: Dry, Moist, Wet
Drought Tolerance: High
Size and Growth Rate
Height: 4 - 6 ft
Spread: 3 - 4 ft
Growth Rate: Medium