Wild Senna (Italica)

Senna italica - Wild Senna – Caesalpiniaceae family

This is a small perennial plant growing to maybe 30-35cm in height and found in most grassland areas.

Due to a nectar substance, these plant attract many ants which may help to protect it from herbivorous insects.

Anthers have tiny apical pores; they must be vibrated at high frequency by bees to release the pollen.

Forms of cultivated Senna (dried leaves and pods) are commercially used as a purgative.

 The seeds are used in traditional medicine and make a passable coffee substitute and certain animals enjoy feasting on them and the pods.
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