A synopsis of the native and naturalised species of Senna (Leguminosae: Caesalpinioideae) in the Arabian Peninsula is provided. Nine species are recognised. A key to the species is presented. For each species the accepted name with selected synonymy is given, followed by a diagnostic morphological description, the geographical distribution, details of habitat preference, and citation of specimens studied. Preliminary regional conservation assessments are given for all species.

Losses of stored seed to insects in the tropics have reached levels of major concern. Synthetic insecticides, while effective, are generally very expensive for small fanners. The efficacy of two plants, Hyptis spicigera and Cassia nigricans, used by farmers to control insect infestation in stored cowpeas was determined. The oviposition and hatching of bean weevils (Acanthoscelides obtectus), under controlled environmental conditions, were reduced following treatment with EtOH extracts (1 g plant material 1 ml EtOH) at low application rates with EC50 between 0.3 and 14 μl extract/g bean. Further field studies are proposed to determine if such natural products can be further exploited to reduce stored legume losses.