Silver Cassia (Senna artemisioides)

Silver Cassia

Senna artemisioides

Silvery foliage glows in arid sun, a tough desert beauty. Evergreen flowering shrub; common names: silver senna, feathery cassia.

Full sun
1/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Requires full sun exposure for optimal flowering; tolerates intense arid sunlight and has minimal shade tolerance
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Watering Drought-tolerant; water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings to prevent root rot
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Temperature Hardy to light frost; thrives in warm arid climates and should be protected from prolonged temperatures below 5°C
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Fine, silvery-grey pinnate leaves with a soft, feathery texture
  • Flower: Bright yellow pea-like blooms in dense terminal clusters
  • Stem: Woody branching stems with rough greyish-brown bark
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Care Guide

Watering

Reduce watering frequency; allow the top 15–20 cm of soil to dry fully before rewatering

Fertilization

Apply a diluted balanced organic fertilizer once every 2 months. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, which can reduce flowering and promote excessive foliage growth

Crushed eggshell topdress:Crush dried eggshells into a fine powder and sprinkle lightly over the soil surface to boost calcium levels and improve soil drainage; avoid burying deep to prevent odor buildup
Pruning
  • Prune lightly immediately after flowering to maintain a rounded, compact shape
  • Remove dead, damaged, or diseased branches to improve airflow and reduce pest risk
  • Thin overcrowded inner growth to encourage new flowering stems for the next season
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Toxic; contains anthraquinones that may cause gastrointestinal irritation and systemic effects

Humans: Ingestion of large amounts may cause nausea, diarrhea, or abdominal discomfort due to anthraquinone compounds

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental garden shrub, erosion control in arid landscapes, and habitat for native pollinators