Experience the natural beauty and versatility of Colutea arborescens, commonly known as Common Bladder Senna. This deciduous, perennial shrub, reaching heights of 8 to 11 feet, transforms ordinary landscapes with its lush, rounded habit and vibrant yellow pea-like blooms that grace gardens from June through September. Belonging to the Fabaceae family, the plant's unique three-inch, bladder-like seed pods lend it a distinctive charm, while the hermaphrodite flowers, pollinated by bees, enhance ecological biodiversity, attracting various forms of wildlife.
Ideal for gardeners seeking a robust yet ornamental addition, Common Bladder Senna thrives in an array of soil types—from sandy to clay—and favors well-drained, dry to medium conditions. Its exceptional drought tolerance makes it perfect for challenging climates. Hardy to Zone 5, it can flourish both in full sun and light woodland areas. While its rapid growth can be aggressive, pruning in late winter curtails its expansive tendencies, catering to landscape design needs from erosion control to creating picturesque hedges.