Senna ligustrina (Privet Senna)

Senna ligustrina (Privet Senna) is an evergreen perennial shrub boasting a profusion of 5-petaled, bright yellow flowers from fall to spring, occasionally in summer. Borne in axillary clusters (5-10 and more), they attract sulfur butterflies and bees. The blossoms give way to thin bean pods, about 5 in. long (12 cm), that turn brown when ripe. The foliage is quite handsome with its long, pinnately compound leaves, comprised of many dark green, linear to lanceolate-shaped leaflets. The leaves make an excellent backdrop for the beautiful bright yellow flowers. Native to Southwest Florida, Privet Senna occurs naturally in hammocks and disturbed areas. It is a wonderful addition to any butterfly garden and requires minimal maintenance once established.

• Grows up to 4-8 ft. tall (120-240 cm) and 3-6 ft. wide (90-180 cm).
• Performs best in full sun to light shade in dry to slightly moist well-drained sand. Can grow in nutrient-poor soils but does better with some organic content. Does not tolerate flooding by salt or brackish water and has a low tolerance to salt wind.
• No serious insect or disease problems.
• Privet Senna is a prolific self-seeder and should be pruned to prevent an abundance of seedlings.
• Propagate by seed.
• The plant is highly toxic to horses if consumed. The pollen from privet cassia can cause symptoms of asthma and eczema. 
• Native to Southwest Florida.