_Cassia marylandica_
_Flowers_--Yellow, about 3/4 in. broad, numerous, in short axillary
clusters on the upper part of plant. Calyx of 5 oblong lobes; 5 petals,
3 forming an upper lip, 2 a lower one; 10 stamens of 3 different kinds;
1 pistil. _Stem:_ 3 to 8 ft. high, little branched. _Leaves:_
Alternately pinnately compounded of 6 to 10 pairs of oblong leaflets.
_Fruit:_ A narrow, flat curving pod, 3 to 4 in. long.
_Preferred Habitat_--Alluvial or moist, rich soil, swamps, roadsides.
_Flowering Season_--July-August.
_Distribution_--New England, westward to Nebraska, south to the
Gulf States.
Whoever has seen certain Long Island roadsides bordered with wild
senna, the brilliant flower clusters contrasted with the deep green of
the beautiful foliage, knows that no effect produced by art along the
drives of public park or private garden can match these country lanes
in simple charm.
While leaves of certain African and East Indian species of senna are
most valued for their medicinal properties, those of this plant are
largely collected in the Middle and Southern states as a substitute.
Caterpillars of several sulphur butterflies, which live exclusively on
cassia foliage, appear to feel no evil effects from overdoses.