Origin
Senna septemtrionalis (Viv.) H.S.Irwin & Barneby, commonly known as northern wild sensitive-plant, belongs to the Fabaceae family. The plant is native to North America and commonly found in the United States and Mexico.
Common Names
The plant Senna septemtrionalis is known by various common names like northern wild sensitive-plant, northern wild senna, wild senna, and tall wild senna.
Uses
Indigenous people used the plant Senna septemtrionalis for treating urine infections, constipation and for enhancing bowel movements. The plant also has antioxidant, antifungal, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. The leaves and the roots have a purgative effect and stimulate peristaltic action in the digestive tract.
General Appearance
Senna septemtrionalis is a deciduous, perennial herbaceous plant that can grow up to four feet in height. Its leaves are compound, bipinnate, elliptical, and arranged oppositely on the stem. The plant has yellow flowers that bloom in the late summer and have a fragrant scent. The seedpods are brown in color and contain small, crescent-shaped seeds. The plant can easily adapt to various environments and is commonly found in open fields, disturbed areas, and roadsides.
Growth Conditions for Senna septemtrionalis (Viv.) H.S.Irwin & Barneby
Senna septemtrionalis (Viv.) H.S.Irwin & Barneby, commonly known as Northern wild senna, is a perennial legume that belongs to the family Fabaceae. It is native to North America and can grow up to 3 meters in height. This plant prefers to grow in full sun.
Light Requirements
Senna septemtrionalis (Viv.) H.S.Irwin & Barneby prefers full sun exposure. It thrives in open areas and disturbed sites such as roadsides, fields, and forests that have been recently cleared. This plant grows best when it receives at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. Lack of sunshine may result in less dense foliage and slower growth.
Temperature Requirements
Senna septemtrionalis (Viv.) H.S.Irwin & Barneby prefers warm temperatures. It can tolerate varying degrees of temperatures, but it grows best in areas where temperatures range between 25 to 35 degrees Celsius. This plant can withstand frost and freezing temperatures, but it is best to provide it with sufficient protection.
Soil Requirements
Senna septemtrionalis (Viv.) H.S.Irwin & Barneby prefers well-drained soils. This plant can grow in different types of soil, including sand, loam, and clay. It prefers soil with a pH ranging between 6.0 to 7.5. It is adaptable to different soil conditions, but it will grow better in rich soils that are high in organic matter. Regular fertilization may also enhance its growth and overall health.
Cultivation of Senna septemtrionalis
Senna septemtrionalis can be easily grown in a sunny location in well-drained soil. It is a hardy plant that requires minimal care once established. However, it is important to provide it with the appropriate growing conditions to ensure healthy growth and abundant flowering.
Watering Needs of Senna septemtrionalis
Senna septemtrionalis prefers moderate watering and can tolerate short periods of drought. Overwatering can cause the plant to become waterlogged and lead to root rot. To avoid this, water the plant only when the soil is dry to the touch, and ensure proper drainage.
Fertilization of Senna septemtrionalis
Applying a balanced fertilizer once a year, during the growing season, can help promote healthy growth and blooming in Senna septemtrionalis. Fertilizers containing high levels of nitrogen should be avoided as they can cause the plant to produce excessive foliage at the expense of flowering.
Pruning of Senna septemtrionalis
Senna septemtrionalis requires minimal pruning, and it generally only needs to be pruned to remove dead or damaged branches. The best time to prune is in the early spring before new growth appears. Regular pruning can lead to bushier growth and more flowers. It is important to sterilize pruning tools to avoid spreading diseases among the plants.
Propagation Methods for Senna septemtrionalis (Viv.) H.S.Irwin & Barneby
Senna septemtrionalis (Viv.) H.S.Irwin & Barneby is a perennial shrub native to North, Central and South America. It is commonly known as "Northern Wild Senna" or "Ligustrina". The plant belongs to the Fabaceae family and has yellow flowers that bloom in summer. Propagation of Senna septemtrionalis can be achieved by various methods: seed propagation, stem cuttings and division.
Seed propagation
The easiest and most common way to propagate Senna septemtrionalis is via seeds. Seeds can be obtained from mature pods that have turned brown and dry. It is recommended to harvest pods directly from the plant to ensure the best quality seeds. Once the seeds are obtained, they can be sowed directly into the soil, following the recommended depth according to their size. The plant prefers full sun and well-drained soil.
Stem cuttings
Another way to propagate Senna septemtrionalis is through stem cuttings. It is recommended to take stem cuttings in spring or early summer, when the plant is actively growing. Cuttings should be taken from newer stems that are still green and have not turned woody. Cuttings should be around 4 to 6 inches in length and can be planted directly into the soil or in a potting mix. The soil should be kept moist, and cuttings should be placed in a shaded area until new growth appears.
Division
Senna septemtrionalis can also be propagated through division. This method is recommended for older plants that have developed multiple stems and a large root system. The plant can be dug up and separated into smaller sections, ensuring that each section has a sufficient number of stems and roots. The sections can be planted directly into the soil, and should be kept moist until new growth appears.
Propagation of Senna septemtrionalis can be achieved through different methods, depending on availability of resources and personal preference. It is important to ensure that the plant is propagated correctly, to ensure successful growth and healthy development.
Disease and Pest Management for Senna septemtrionalis (Viv.) H.S.Irwin & Barneby
Senna septemtrionalis (Viv.) H.S.Irwin & Barneby, commonly known as northern wild senna, is a hardy, drought-tolerant, and pest-resistant plant. However, like all living organisms, it is susceptible to certain diseases and pests that can cause severe damage if not controlled on time.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases affecting Senna septemtrionalis is root rot caused by fungi such as Fusarium, Pythium, and Rhizoctonia. This disease can cause the plant to wilt, become stunted, and eventually die. Another common disease is powdery mildew, which is caused by the fungi Erysiphe cichoracearum or Oidium sp. and appears as a white powdery coating on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant.
Disease Management
The best way to manage these and other diseases affecting Senna septemtrionalis is to practice good sanitation and cultural practices. This includes avoiding overhead watering, providing proper drainage, and removing infected plant debris. It's also best to plant disease-resistant varieties and avoid planting in areas where the disease has previously occurred. If necessary, chemical control using fungicides can be employed.
Common Pests
Senna septemtrionalis is generally resistant to most pests. However, some pests can still attack the plant, including spider mites, aphids, and whiteflies. These pests can cause damage by sucking out the plant's sap, leading to stunted growth, yellowing of leaves, and leaf drop.
Pest Management
The best way to manage pests on Senna septemtrionalis is to regularly monitor the plant for signs of infestation and remove any affected plant parts. Natural predators such as ladybugs and lacewings can be introduced to help control the pests. Additionally, chemical control using insecticides may be necessary if the infestation is severe.
By following these disease and pest management practices, you can help keep Senna septemtrionalis healthy and thriving in your garden or landscape.
