Cassia didymobotrya, commonly known as the popcorn cassia, peanut butter senna, or African senna, is a striking evergreen shrub or small tropical perennial belonging to the Fabaceae (legume) family. Native to tropical Africa, this plant is celebrated for its dramatic foliage and bright floral displays, making it a popular ornamental species in warm climates and as a summer annual in cooler regions. It typically grows to 1.5–3 meters (5–10 feet) in height, forming a dense, bushy shape with pinnate leaves composed of numerous oblong, glossy green leaflets that release a distinctive peanut butter or popcorn-like scent when crushed.
The plant produces upright racemes of vivid yellow, cup-shaped flowers that emerge from dark, almost black buds, creating a striking contrast. These flowers bloom over a long period, often from spring through autumn, attracting bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. Cassia didymobotrya thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, tolerating heat and drought once established but benefiting from regular watering during dry spells. It can be grown as a perennial in USDA zones 9–11 or as an annual in cooler climates where frost occurs. Its tropical appearance, fragrant foliage, and showy blooms make Cassia didymobotrya a favorite choice for pollinator gardens, borders, and decorative landscaping, providing vibrant color and a unique sensory experience in both public and private gardens.