Senna nemophila

Sunset

Senna nemophila, photo courtesy of Andrea Gómez Romero

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Zones 12-24

Full, Partial

Moderate, Minimal

DESERT CASSIA

Evergreen, Shrubs

SENNA

Previously included in Cassia and still often sold as such, these species have been reclassified as Senna—a move not accepted by all botanists. Grown for their lavish show of bright yellow, five-petaled flowers that look something like those of potentilla. Blossoms are followed by seedpods that may create litter; to reduce pod production, prune lightly after flowering. Rangy, rank growers should also be cut back periodically to encourage more compact growth. Good for screens, massing, background plantings. Prefer well-drained soil.

Senna nemophila

FromCalifornia. Erect or sprawlingto 2–3 ft. high and 3 ft. wide.Ovate green leaves to 13/4 in.long. Purple, 1-in. flowers inlate winter, spring. Superiorforms include ‘Mountain Pride’and ‘Salmon Creek’. Little orno water.