Maryland Senna Senna marilandica

Maryland senna is a herbaceous perennial in the Fabaceae (pea) family native to moist forested areas and disturbed sites in eastern North America.  This is a striking plant while in bloom and has attractive foliage. The showy yellow flowers develop and grow into dark brown seedpods that attract birds and add winter interest to the garden. Maryland senna is virtually indistinguishable from the american senna, except when they produce ripe seeds. The seedpods of the maryland senna remain tightly closed until the end of the season, whereas the american senna plant readily opens its pods and allows the seeds to fall out.

Maryland senna do well in partial to full sun, and moist to mesic conditions. A rich loamy soil is preferred, although sandy and rocky soils are also tolerated. It doesn't mind an occasional flooding. This plant can become quite tall when the soil is fertile and moist. It may flop over while the flowers and seedpods are developing. This plant is drought tolerant once established. Once the seeds appear, it is easy to propagate by seeds or by the division of roots in the early spring or fall. Full sun aids in better flowering.  

The Maryland senna is a host plant for various Sulphur butterflies including Cloudless sulpher (phoebis sennae), Orange-barred sulpher (phoebis philea), Tailed orange (Colias eurytheme), Little yellow (Eurema lisa), and Sleepy orange (Abaeis nicippe) Butterflies.  Before the butterflies emerge, foliage and flower buds are often eaten by the caterpillars. The seeds may be eaten by some upland gamebirds as well, particularly quail and dove. The Cherokee and other peoples use the root of the plant to treat high fevers, a worm remedy, treat fainting spells and pneumonia.  

The Maryland senna is most often found on riverbanks, in moist meadows, pastures, and roadsides. Some disturbance of the plant location is beneficial to allow it to grow without it being overtaken by other trees and shrubs. Occasionally, Maryland senna is found in flower gardens because of its showy flowers and leaves that give it a tropical feel.

Insects, Diseases and Other Plant Problems: Foliage and flower buds are often eaten by the caterpillars of the Cloudless sulpher Butterfly.  Otherwise, they have no serious insect problems.