Description

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Desert cassia tree description

Senna polyphylla (Desert cassia) is a small tree or shrub, typically 7 to 10 feet in height, occasionally taller. Additionally, it has dark gray bark and often produces multiple stems sprouting from the root crown. Moreover, it develops a strong taproot. Twigs are light green, maturing to brown. Leaves are green , alternate or clustered at nodes; pinnately compound with 3-15 pairs of leaflets, the tiny leaflets are oval, about 3/8 inch long. The species name means “many leaves.”

Flowers are borne in clusters at branch ends; blooms yellow about 1 1/2 inches across. Furthermore, the fruit is a flat pod, slightly twisted, flattened between the seeds, 3 to 6 inches long and dark brown when mature. The seeds are round, flattened and dark brown, used for propagation. The wood is light brown and hard, used for fence posts and fuel.

Senna Polyphylla tree cultivation

Desert cassia tree is hardy and grows well in a range of soil types, providing they are well-drained, even tolerating rocky, excessively drained sites. It requires pruning.

As a landscape plant in gardens or parks, desert cassia is a specimen or accent tree or shrub. It is also ideal for rock or butterfly gardens as well as a pot or bonsai plant.

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