Status in Florida: Native
Size at Maturity: Senna Privet typically grows as a large shrub, reaching heights of about 6 to 10 feet tall and spreading 4 to 6 feet wide.
Phenology: Deciduous shrub with compound leaves and clusters of bright yellow flowers that bloom in late spring to summer.
Life Cycle: Perennial
Bloom Season: Late spring to summer
Deciduous, Dioecious, Evergreen: Deciduous
Sunlight Requirements: Full sun to partial shade
Soil Texture: Well-drained sandy or loamy soils; tolerant of various soil types
Soil pH: Tolerant of a wide range, but prefers slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5-7.0)
Moisture Requirements: Tolerant of drought once established; prefers moderately moist soil
Tolerance to Salt Spray: Low tolerance
 
Landscape Considerations
Recommended Landscape Uses: Native plant gardens, butterfly gardens, wildlife gardens, naturalized areas
Maintenance Tips: Low maintenance; prune back as needed to control size and shape; may benefit from occasional fertilization with a balanced fertilizer
Considerations: Senna Privet is highly attractive to pollinators and provides important habitat and food for various wildlife species.
Deer and/or Rabbit Resistance: Moderately resistant; typically not preferred by deer or rabbits
Edible: While not typically consumed by humans, some species of Senna are used in herbal medicine and traditional remedies.
Medicinal Uses: Historically used in traditional medicine for various purposes, including as a laxative and for gastrointestinal issues.
Toxicity to Pets: Not known to be toxic to pets, but ingestion of large quantities of plant material may cause gastrointestinal upset.
Florida Native Companion Plant: Senna Privet is often found growing alongside other native plants in various habitats, including species such as Beautyberry (Callicarpa americana) and Firebush (Hamelia patens).
Wildlife Benefit: Attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies; provides habitat and food for birds, insects, and other wildlife.
Caterpillar Host Plant: Senna Privet is a host plant for the caterpillars of various butterfly species, including the Cloudless Sulphur (Phoebis sennae) and the Sleepy Orange (Abaeis nicippe).