Coffee Senna Senna occidentalis

Coffee senna is a pantropical or subtropical weed in the Fabaceae (pea) family found in moist, disturbed or waste areas in lower elevations around the world.  Originally native to the Americas, it has been widely cultivated throughout the tropics and subtropics and is commonly naturalized in many areas. In these non-seasonal zones, the plants can bloom all year round.

Coffee senna requires full sun, in a deep, well-drained, moderately fertile sandy loamy soil.  It prefers a moderate pH but will grow in alkaline soils as well.  It is easily propagated by seed.  The seeds may benefit from scarification before sowing in order to speed up and improve germination.

Even though the plant has poisonous characteristics if taken in large quantities, almost all parts of the plant (leaf, flower, root, seeds) are used as food and medicine by various peoples in many parts of the world.  The seeds are often used as a substitute for coffee.  The root and dried flowers are brewed as a type of tea to treat gastrointestinal issues, colds and flu, and circulatory problems.  Poultices made from the roots and flowers are used to treat skin disorders such as eczema.  There are many other uses.  The leaves, seeds and flowers are steamed and eaten as a vegetable. 

Coffee senna grows in disturbed environments in and around abandoned fields/houses and roadsides.  The plant has a strong disagreeable odor when crushed.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  The plant has poisonous characteristics to humans if taken in large quantities.  The plant is poisonous to cattle.  It is considered a weed in cultivated fields and plantations and can accumulate in heavily grazed pastures as the cattle won't eat it.