The Candlestick Tree (Senna alata) is a striking tropical plant known for its distinctive appearance. This fast-growing shrub or small tree gets its common name from its upright, golden-yellow flower spikes that resemble lit candles. Native to tropical regions of the Americas, including parts of South America, Central America, and the West Indies, it thrives in warm, humid environments. Its unique floral display makes it a popular ornamental choice in suitable climates worldwide.
Identifying the Candlestick Tree
The Candlestick Tree is identifiable by several physical characteristics. Its most prominent feature is the large, erect inflorescence, typically 10 to 50 cm long, composed of densely packed, overlapping yellow flowers. These vibrant clusters emerge at the tips of branches, creating the “candlestick” effect.
The leaves are large and pinnately compound, measuring 45 to 80 cm in length. Each leaf consists of 8 to 14 pairs of oblong to ovate leaflets with rounded or slightly notched tips. These leaflets often fold up at night. The plant typically grows as a coarse, erect shrub, reaching heights of 1.5 to 5 meters, but can occasionally be trained into a small tree.
Growing and Caring for Your Candlestick Tree
Cultivating the Candlestick Tree requires attention to its tropical needs for robust growth and prolific flowering. It flourishes in full sun exposure, needing at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. While it tolerates a range of soil types, well-draining, loamy soil is preferred, as proper drainage prevents waterlogging and promotes root health.
Consistent moisture is important, especially for young plants, though mature trees show good drought tolerance once established. It thrives in warm temperatures, ideally around 25°C, and moderate humidity. The plant is sensitive to frost; above-ground parts die back in freezing conditions, though roots may survive to regrow.
For feeding, a balanced fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10 N-P-K) can be applied during the growing season to support healthy foliage and abundant blooms. Pruning helps maintain its shape, manage size, and encourage bushier growth and more flowers, ideally done after the main flowering period. Propagation is straightforward, typically through seeds (which benefit from overnight soaking) or cuttings taken during the growing season. The Candlestick Tree faces few serious pest or disease issues, though leaf miners, aphids, and whiteflies can affect indoor plants.
Benefits and Traditional Uses
The Candlestick Tree offers significant ornamental value, making it a popular choice for gardens and landscapes in tropical and subtropical regions. Its striking, upright yellow flower spikes provide a dramatic visual impact, particularly from late summer into autumn, adding vibrant color to outdoor spaces. Its ability to grow quickly and provide a lush, tropical aesthetic is highly valued.
Beyond its beauty, Senna alata has a history of traditional medicinal uses across various cultures. It is recognized for treating skin conditions, notably ringworm and other fungal infections, earning it common names like “ringworm bush.” Leaf extracts contain compounds like anthraquinones, contributing to its traditional use as a laxative. Other traditional applications include remedies for parasitic skin diseases, scabies, and fevers. While these traditional uses are documented, they do not constitute medical advice; consult a healthcare professional before using any plant for medicinal purposes.
Important Considerations and Warnings
Despite its ornamental appeal and traditional uses, the Candlestick Tree requires careful consideration due to its potential toxicity and invasive tendencies. All parts of the plant, especially the seeds, are toxic if ingested by humans and animals. Ingestion can lead to gastrointestinal disturbances, including diarrhea and abdominal pain, and in higher doses, serious or fatal effects. Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets.
Furthermore, Senna alata can become an invasive species in warm, humid climates outside its native range. Its prolific seed production and rapid growth rate contribute to its ability to spread aggressively and outcompete native flora. In some regions, it forms dense thickets that can shade out and displace other plants, impacting local ecosystems. Gardeners in suitable climates should check local regulations and consider its invasive potential before planting.