- Category
- Forb / Wildflower
- Sun
- Full to Partial
- Soil moisture
- Medium-Wet to Medium-Dry
- Bloom time
- Jul–Aug
- Bloom color
- Yellow
- Notes
- Legume
About Maryland Senna
Maryland Senna is a stunning architectural perennial that closely resembles its cousin, Wild Senna, but is often found in slightly drier habitats. Reaching 3 to 6 feet in height, it produces lush, fern-like foliage and terminal clusters of striking yellow flowers from July through August. These blooms lack nectar but are rich in pollen, making them a primary destination for large bees. Native to the Central and Eastern United States, it is a common sight in open woods, savannas, and prairies. It performs best in full sun and well-drained, medium-moisture soil, though it can tolerate a variety of conditions including clay and sand. Maryland Senna serves as an important host plant for Sulphur butterflies and provides late-season interest with its long, decorative seed pods that turn black as they ripen. Its upright habit and deer resistance make it a reliable and low-maintenance choice for adding vertical interest and ecological value to a sunny garden border.
Native range
Native to 30 states:
County range map

Range map courtesy of BONAP (Biota of North America Program).
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