Senna hebecarpa, commonly known as Wild Senna, is a native perennial found in prairies, moist meadows, woodland edges, and streambanks throughout Illinois. It thrives in full sun to partial shade and moist, well-drained soils but can also tolerate occasional dryness, making it a versatile and hardy addition to native plantings.
This tall, bushy plant features pinnately compound leaves with multiple pairs of leaflets, giving it a tropical, fern-like appearance. From mid to late summer, it produces clusters of bright yellow, pea-like flowers that attract a wide variety of pollinators, particularly native bees. The flowers are followed by long, dark seed pods that persist into fall and provide interest and food for wildlife. Wild Senna typically grows up to 6 feet tall and forms striking, dense clumps.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Senna hebecarpa is an excellent choice for pollinator gardens, prairie restorations, and rain gardens. As a legume, it improves soil health by fixing nitrogen, and it serves as a host plant for the Cloudless Sulphur butterfly. Its bold foliage, vibrant blooms, and ecological benefits make it a standout in both formal and naturalized native landscapes.
Senna hebecarpa, commonly known as Wild Senna, is a native perennial found in prairies, moist meadows, woodland edges, and streambanks throughout Illinois. It thrives in full sun to partial shade and moist, well-drained soils but can also tolerate occasional dryness, making it a versatile and hardy addition to native plantings.
This tall, bushy plant features pinnately compound leaves with multiple pairs of leaflets, giving it a tropical, fern-like appearance. From mid to late summer, it produces clusters of bright yellow, pea-like flowers that attract a wide variety of pollinators, particularly native bees. The flowers are followed by long, dark seed pods that persist into fall and provide interest and food for wildlife. Wild Senna typically grows up to 6 feet tall and forms striking, dense clumps.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Senna hebecarpa is an excellent choice for pollinator gardens, prairie restorations, and rain gardens. As a legume, it improves soil health by fixing nitrogen, and it serves as a host plant for the Cloudless Sulphur butterfly. Its bold foliage, vibrant blooms, and ecological benefits make it a standout in both formal and naturalized native landscapes.
Bloom: mid- to late summer
Habitats: fens; moist meadows near rivers; pastures; roadsides; savannas
Lifespan: perennial
Moisture: moist to mesic
Plant type (height): forb (up to 6 feet)
Requirements: full sun to partial sun
Soil: rich loamy soil is preferred, although rocky or sandy soil are tolerated
