Candlestick bush

Description:

The Candle Bush plant, also called the Candlestick plant or Senna alata, is a tropical perennial capable of reaching twelve feet high. The plants feature lush growth and yellow flowers resembling candles that bloom from late summer to fall. The Candle Bush plant is drought-tolerant and weather-tough. Large, bright yellow flowers resembling Candelabra's persist from late summer to frost. Their leaves fold up at night like a prayer plant!

Habitat:

Hatchet Caye grounds.

Notes:

Leaves or sap are used to treat fungal infections such as ringworm. They contain a fungicide, chrysophanic acid. Because of its anti-fungal properties, it is a common ingredient in soaps, shampoos and lotions in the Philippines. The effectiveness of this plant against skin diseases is confirmed by modern scientific studies. In Africa the boiled leaves are used to treat high-blood pressure. In South America, besides skin diseases, it is also used to treat a wide range of ailments from stomach problems, fever, asthma to snake bite!