THIS week, Hillcrest Conservancy takes a look at the Arsenic bush as part of its series of articles on alien invasive plants to help the community to identify and eradicate them from their gardens.
The Arsenic bush’s scientific name is Senna septemtrionalis but it is also known as smooth senna, yellow shower and buttercup bush.
Description: The arsenic bush is a poisonous shrub that can grow up to two to three metres tall. The leaves are arranged in pairs opposite each other and are spear-shaped. The seed pods are tube like and about 10cm long containing shiny dark brown seeds. There are many Senna species and most of these were introduced as ornamental flowering plants. The flowers bright yellow in a cup shape and appear from October to March.
Also read: Know your alien invasive plant: Ant tree
Where does this species come from? Originally from Mexico and Central America.
Where in SA is it a problem? Due to the lack of natural predators, it has become a problem in most provinces in SA.
What is its invasive status in South Africa? It has been placed on the NEMA list as a Category 1B.
Why is it a problem? The arsenic bush invades forest margins, savannah, riverbanks, roadsides, waste ground and plantations, where it establishes itself and suppresses the regeneration of desirable species. Due to its aggressive nature it successfully out-competes our indigenous plants. It is also poisonous.
How does it spread? This plant spreads by reseeding itself, but seeds may contaminate soil and garden waste.
Does the plant have any uses? This plant is sometimes used medicinally but great caution needs to be exercised.
Contact Ian Pattrick on 079 909 5458 or Hillcrest Conservancy chairman, George Victor, on 073 901 3902 or e-mail georgevic@telkomsa.net
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