about the product
Senna meridionalis is a striking caudiciform shrub endemic to southern Madagascar. It develops a swollen water-storing trunk (caudex) and produces delicate pinnate leaves with bright yellow flowers during the growing season. Highly valued by collectors for its sculptural form and excellent drought tolerance.
sizing
This plant was grown from seed, is approximately 1.5 years old, stands around 15 cm tall and is well acclimatised to Australian conditions.
CARING TIPS
Note
The following care guide is suggested based on the weather conditions of NSW and VIC. For other Australian states, please use this as a reference and adjust according to your local climate.
Origin
Madagascar
Seasonally dry tropical habitat
Spiny forest, dry scrubland, sandy limestone areas & open rocky ground
Life Cycle & Dormancy
Spring – Summer → active growth
Usually grows best from around September to March
Produces small green leaves and a naturally bonsai-like branching form
Yellow Senna flowers may appear on mature plants during the growing season
Autumn – Winter → semi-dormant to dormant
May slow down or drop some leaves from June to August
Leaf drop during winter is normal due to cooler nights and lower light
Soil
Very fast draining mix
Mineral-heavy soil strongly recommended
Pumice, lava rock, coarse sand & small gravel work well
Use only a small amount of organic matter
Avoid rich, water-retentive potting mix
Watering
Water deeply only when fully dry
Spring – Summer → light to regular watering, depending on heat and airflow
During humid or rainy weeks, wait longer between watering
Autumn → gradually reduce watering
Winter → keep mostly dry, especially from June to August
Do not water on cold, cloudy or rainy days
Light
Bright light to full sun
Morning sun is ideal for young plants
Strong light encourages compact growth and stronger branching
Protect young or recently imported plants from harsh afternoon sun during heatwaves
Best grown with strong light, warmth and very good airflow
Temperature
Best: 22–32°C
Winter nights can be too cool and damp for active growth
Winter minimum: 10–12°C recommended for potted plants
Keep warm, dry and well ventilated during cold periods
Move indoors or under cover during long rainy winter weeks
SHIPPING & RETURNS
Plant may drop its leaves during shipping or in Sydney’s cooler months, especially from June to August. This is normal, as the plant is deciduous and can naturally enter dormancy during autumn and winter. New leaves will usually grow back once the weather becomes warmer and brighter.
After arrival, soak the plant in water or diluted HB101 / Seasol for 3–5 hours. Then keep it in shade for 1–2 days to recover and adapt gently.
For live plants, we ship them bareroot (roots only, without soil and pot). This helps make the shipping process smoother, faster, and safer, while also greatly reducing the risk of root rot during transit.
Pots, soil mixes, and fertilizers will be packed carefully and shipped securely.
You can read the full shipping policy here.