Senna alata is known for its showy yellow flower clusters that can be seen from a distance. These flowers are arranged in an erect, candle-like fashion called racemes of the plant. It is because of this reason, this plant is called as Candle Bush, Candle tree or Candlestick Plants. This plant has an exceptional anti-fungal properties for treating fungal infections on the skin. In particular, this is used as a herbal medicine for curing Ringworm, a skin disease. In many places, it is known by the name Ringworm Bush. In some counties, this plant is grown for ornamental purposes whereas in my place (Chennai, India), we can see this plant almost everywhere on the roadsides or unused areas.
Common Names: Candelabra bush, Empress candle plant, Emperor’s Candlesticks, Ringworm tree, Candletree, Candle Bush, Candlebush, Golden Candle, Candlestick Senna, Christmas-candle, Ringworm Senna, Ringworm Bush, Ringworm shrub, Cassia alata.
Botanical Name: Senna alata
Family: Caesalpiniaceae (Gulmohar family)
More Candle Bush Pictures: Photo Gallery