Tropical Plants

Senna is a plant genus that belongs to the subfamily Caesalpinioideae (Caesalpinioideae) within the legume family (Fabaceae). The commonly called "Senna" known plant species that provides the pharmaceutical used senna, Senna alexandrina carries the botanical name.

Dissemination

Senna species worldwide are mainly distributed in the tropics, some species but also occur in temperate zones. The greatest diversity of species found in America.

Description

Among the species of Senna herbaceous plants, shrubs and trees are represented. The leaves are pinnate pairs. Stipules are present.

The flowers are in spiciform or vituperate inflorescences with bracts usually falling early. The hermaphroditic, fivefold flowers are more or less zygomorph. The five sepals are fused with more or less the same calyx teeth.

The five petals are yellow in most species. Mostly ten stamens are present. The largely upright filaments are not more than twice as long as the dust bag. The curved ovary contains many ovules. The cylindrical and winged legumes (beans) are shorter than 30 cm and contain many seeds.

Use

In parts of Southeast Asia leaves and flowers of the species Senna siamea be used [in the kitchen]. By the content of anthraquinones can be made from Sennapflanzen laxative; in herbal medicine are also other indications known.

Senna italica (syn. Cassia obovata) is a proven hair dye for blonde hair and natural hair care products. Cassia auriculata was used as a tanning agent for the manufacture of Damascus steel.



Source: http://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Senna_%28Gattung%29

See Also: International Flower Delivery, Florist