Overview
Sesbania sesban is a plant with a shrub, small tree habit in the genus Sesbania, part of the Fabaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Sesbania sesban grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. Suggested uses include ornamental, nitrogen-fixing and fodder.
About
Sesbania sesban, the Egyptian riverhemp, is a species of plant in the legume family, a fast growing species, it has four varieties that are currently recognized.
About the genus
Sesbania is a genus of flowering plants in the pea family, Fabaceae, and the only genus found in tribe Sesbanieae. Riverhemp is a common name for plants in this genus. Notable species include the rattlebox, spiny sesbania, and Sesbania sesban, which is used in cooking.
Wikipedia contributors, "Sesbania", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Sesbania
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Sesbania
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Loam
- Soil pH
- Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist
- Aspect
- South-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H4
Plant details
Sesbania sesban size, habit and characteristics
- Habit
- Shrub, Small tree
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Suggested uses
- Ornamental, Nitrogen-fixing, Fodder
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Sesbania sesban
- Propagation
- Seed, Cuttings
- Pest resistance
- Susceptible to aphids
- Disease resistance
- Susceptible to powdery mildew
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Sesbania sesban?
Sesbania sesban prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Sesbania sesban need?
Sesbania sesban grows best in loam soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist.
Is Sesbania sesban hardy in the UK?
Sesbania sesban has an RHS hardiness rating of H4, meaning it is hardy through an average UK winter, tolerating -10 to -5°C.
How do I propagate Sesbania sesban?
Seed, Cuttings.