Cassia Senna pendula var. glabrata
Cassia is a fast-growing, invasive shrub that poses a serious threat to native bushland in parts of Eastern NSW. Originally introduced as a garden ornamental, it has now escaped into the wild and is displacing native species.
What to look for:
* Shrub 2–3 metres tall with dense, spreading growth
* Bright yellow, pea-like flowers mainly in late winter to spring
* Glossy green, compound leaves (several leaflets per stem)
* Long, slender seed pods that turn dark brown when mature
Why it’s a problem:
* Forms dense thickets that smother native plants
* Produces large numbers of seeds that spread easily
* Alters soil and light conditions, reducing biodiversity
* Regrows rapidly after cutting or disturbance
Management tips:
* Hand-pull seedlings when soil is moist (ensure roots are removed)
* Cut and paint stems with herbicide immediately after cutting larger plants
* Avoid disturbing soil, as this encourages more seed germination
* Monitor sites regularly for regrowth and emerging seedlings
* Remove seed podsfrom any plants before disposal
* Replant with native species to restore balance and prevent return
Wear gloves and long sleeves when removing Cassia—some people experience skin irritation.
Image Credit Harry Rose NSW DPI
More information can be found on the NSW DPI WeedWise site here
What to plant instead? Native alternatives to Cassia
Here are a few beautiful, hardy native shrubs that can take Cassia’s place in the landscape—and offer food and shelter for native fauna:
* Rainforest Cassia, Senna acclinis
– A native senna with yellow flowers, but not weedy
– Attracts butterflies and beneficial insects
– Listed as vulnerable and good for conservation planting
* Hop Goodenia, Goodenia ovata
– Small, bushy shrub with yellow flowers
– Fast-growing and excellent for ground cover or understorey planting
* Sticky Hop Bush, Dodonaea viscosa
– Hardy shrub with reddish seed capsules
– Good screening plant that tolerates poor soils and full sun
* Hairy Bush-pea, Pultenaea villosa
– Attractive small shrub with bright pea-flowers
– Grows well in sandy or well-drained soils
Choosing local native species not only prevents future weed problems—it strengthens the health and resilience of our bushland.
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