Prickly Sesban

Sesbania bispinosa

Physical Characteristics

Sesbania bispinosa is a ANNUAL/BIENNIAL growing to 2 m (6ft) by 1 m (3ft 3in) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 10. The flowers are pollinated by Bees. The plant is self-fertile. It can fix Nitrogen. It is noted for attracting wildlife. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and can grow in heavy clay and nutritionally poor soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils and can grow in very acid, very alkaline and saline soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist or wet soil.

Distribution

Eastern tropical Africa; Afghanistan, Iran, Indian subcontinent, China, Myanmar, Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos.

Habitats

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Seed Edible Uses: Gum Mature seeds - cooked[303 ]. Mainly used in times of famine[418 ].

Medicinal Uses

Antibacterial Antiinflammatory Antitumor Astringent Parasiticide Poultice Skin The leaves and flowers are astringent[303 ]. They are used in he treatment of inflammations, bacterial infections and tumours[303 ]. They are prepared as poultices for external use or taken as a decoction for internal ailments[303 ]. The seed, mixed with flour, is used to treat ringworm and other skin diseases and worms[303 ].

Known Hazards

None known