SENNA hebecarpa (Wild Senna)

SENNA hebecarpa (Wild Senna) is a deciduous perennial plant native to North America. It belongs to the legume family (Fabaceae) and is valued for its attractive yellow flowers, unique foliage, and its importance as a host plant for butterfly larvae. Wild Senna is often used in prairie restorations, native plant gardens, and butterfly gardens.

Wild Senna is a medium to tall perennial plant that can reach a height of 3 to 6 feet (90 to 180 cm) and has a spread of about 2 to 3 feet (60 to 90 cm). It has a sturdy, upright growth habit with multiple stems arising from a central base. The pinnately compound leaves are bright green, consisting of several leaflets arranged along a central stem. The leaves give the plant a feathery appearance.

This species is native to open woodlands, prairies, and wet meadows across North America. Wild Senna thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist to wet soil conditions. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soils.

The flowers of Senna hebecarpa are bright yellow and held in clusters at the ends of the stems. They have a distinctive shape, with five petals, a prominent central stamen, and showy, elongated sepals. The flowers are attractive to pollinators, particularly bees and butterflies. They bloom from mid to late summer, adding a burst of vibrant color to the garden.

Wild Senna is often used in prairie restorations, meadow plantings, or rain gardens. It works well as a background plant, in mixed perennial beds, or as part of a native plant community. The vibrant yellow flowers and unique foliage add interest and beauty to the landscape. Additionally, Wild Senna is an important host plant for the caterpillars of several butterfly species, including the Clouded Sulphur and Orange Sulphur butterflies.

Wild Senna, with its striking yellow flowers, unique foliage, and significance as a butterfly host plant, is a valuable addition to native plant gardens and landscapes. Its ability to attract pollinators, its adaptability to various soil conditions, and its natural beauty make it a desirable choice for those seeking to create wildlife-friendly and ecologically beneficial garden spaces.