emperor's candlesticks

Watering for Emperor’s Candles (Senna alata) can vary depending on levels of humidity, temperature, and light. In general, water the soil weekly and allow the top layer to dry before watering again. During hotter and more humid times, water more often. In colder and drier conditions, water less often. In either case, avoid saturating the plant – especially in winter. Check the soil about 1cm (0.5in) below the surface to make sure the soil is dry before watering again.

Sacadena Alata, also known as Emperor’s Candlesticks, should be planted in an area with full sun for optimal growth and flowering potential. The plants should receive about 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day. If grown in full shade or partial shade, this plant won’t reach its full potential. This plant species does best in full sun as it needs plenty of sunlight to grow and produce blooms. To maintain healthy foliage and flowers, this plant needs to be in full sun and should be receiving adequate sunlight from late spring through early autumn.

Pruning for Emperor's Candlesticks (Senna alata) should be done twice a year, in late winter or early spring and again after the flowering season ends, usually in mid to late summer. Pruning should be done lightly, removing only the flower stalks when the flowers have withered, plus any dead, diseased, or damaged branches. The pruning should only remove the upper 1/3 of the plant, with the aim of not only keeping this species in an aesthetically pleasing shape, but also helping it to form healthy new growth.