Coffeeweed
Senna occidentalis · Fabaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant coffeeweed: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Common name
- Bentamaré
- Family
- Fabaceae
- Plant type
- Annual or perennial herbaceous depending on climate
- Flowering
- Summer to autumn, yellow flowers
- Adult size
- 60 cm to 1.5 m in height
- Hardiness
- Frost-tender, tropical to subtropical climate
- Origin
- Tropical America
- Foliage
- Deciduous, compound and feathery
Care
Light exposure
Place your Bentamaré in full sun for abundant flowering and vigorous growth. It tolerates partial shade, but will perform best with 6 to 8 hours of direct light daily. In very hot climates, some afternoon shade can prevent water stress.
Watering
Keep the soil regularly moist during growth and flowering, without waterlogging. Space out waterings during the dry season or when growing in containers, letting the surface dry slightly between waterings. Adjust frequency to temperature: water more in heat.
Soil
Bentamaré prefers well-draining, fertile soil that is slightly acidic to neutral. A mix rich in organic matter will promote its herbaceous growth. Avoid overly compact or waterlogged soils that cause root rot.
Fertilizing
Apply balanced fertilizer or one slightly rich in phosphorus every 15 days during the active phase (spring-autumn). Reduce applications in winter or the dry season. Well-decomposed compost on the surface naturally enriches the soil.
Pruning and maintenance
Pinch young stems to encourage branching and a bushy shape. Remove dead or damaged stems to open up the plant. Light pruning after flowering keeps it compact and extends its lifespan.
Pests and diseases
In overly humid conditions, watch for rot and fungal diseases. Spider mites may appear in very hot, dry climates. Good air circulation and adequate drainage prevent most issues; treat any infestation promptly.
Watering
Keep the soil regularly moist during growth and flowering, without waterlogging. Space out waterings during the dry season or when growing in containers, letting the surface dry slightly between waterings. Adjust frequency to temperature: water more in heat.
Did you know?
Bentamaré, also known as Senna occidentalis, has been used in several tropical medicinal traditions for centuries. Its seeds contain alkaloids and its root has served as the basis for local preparations, though its use today is more limited and requires caution. This plant remains an important element of agricultural biodiversity in tropical zones and traditional plant medicine.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
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- Honey locustGleditsia triacanthos
- Hairy greenweedGenista pilosa
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.