Bladder Senna

Colutea arborescens

Physical Characteristics

Colutea arborescens is a deciduous Shrub growing to 3.6 m (11ft) by 3 m (9ft) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5. It is in flower from June to September, and the seeds ripen from September to October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees. It can fix Nitrogen. It is noted for attracting wildlife. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers dry or moist soil and can tolerate drought. The plant can tolerates strong winds but not maritime exposure. It can tolerate atmospheric pollution.

Distribution

S. Europe - Mediterranean. Naturalized in Britain[17].

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade; Shady Edge; Hedge;

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal Uses

Diuretic Emetic Purgative The leaves are diuretic and purgative[4, 9]. The leaves are sometimes used as a substitute for senna as a laxative, though they are much milder in their action[4]. The plant is rather unreliable when used medicinally so is rarely employed in herbalism[9]. The seeds are emetic[4]. They are also toxic[9].

Known Hazards

The seed is poisonous[9, 65].