Nodding yellow flowers with 5 unequal petals. The leaves are pale underneath and have a slightly unpleasant smell. There is a small brown spike-like nectar gland close to the lowest pair of leaflets. The fruit is a long, thin bean pod that is curved into a sickle shape.
- Scientific Name: Senna obtusifolia
- Other Names: American Sicklepod, Chinese Senna, Coffee Pod, Coffeeweed
- Flower Size: 0.625 - 1 inch
- Plant Height: 1 - 2.5 feet
- Fun Facts: Roots, leaves and seeds have been used in Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine. Roasted seeds have been used as a coffee substitute. Seeds are used to make cassia gum.
- Flower Color: Yellow
- Bloom Time: July, August, September
- Petal: 5
- Leaf: 4-8 Leaflets, Alternate, Oval, Smooth
- Stem: Branched
- Environment: Sun
- Location: Shiloh Greenway