**Senna alata** (commonly known as *Candle bush* or *Ringworm tree*) is a flowering plant native to tropical regions of the Americas, though it has spread to other parts of the world. It belongs to the *Fabaceae* family.

### Key Features:
- **Scientific Name**: *Senna alata*
- **Common Names**: Candle bush, Ringworm bush, Empress plant
- **Type**: Perennial shrub
- **Height**: Typically grows 3–6 meters tall
- **Flowers**: The plant is known for its striking, yellow, candle-like flower clusters that grow in terminal spikes.
- **Leaves**: Large, pinnate leaves with several small leaflets, often with a glossy appearance.
- **Fruit**: It produces flat, brown pods containing numerous seeds.

### Medicinal Uses:
- **Traditional Medicine**: It has been used in various cultures to treat skin conditions such as ringworm, eczema, and fungal infections. The leaves, seeds, and bark are commonly utilized for their purported antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
- **Caution**: The plant can be toxic if ingested in large quantities, and should be used with care.

### Habitat:
- Prefers well-drained soils and full sunlight. It thrives in tropical and subtropical climates and is often found in disturbed areas, roadsides, and open woodlands.

### Growing:
- *Senna alata* is grown both for its medicinal benefits and as an ornamental plant due to its bright, showy flowers.
- It is hardy in USDA zones 9-11 and can be propagated from seeds or cuttings.

Overall, *Senna alata* is a versatile plant with both aesthetic and therapeutic value, though care should be taken with its medicinal use.

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