Perennial Lawsonia inermis - small tree or tall shrub. Sow Spring/Anytime Medicinal, aromatic herb and Dye Plant also known as hina or the henna tree. Henna has been utilized since earliest times to tint hair, fingernails, skin, and fabrics and was also used for cosmetic purposes in Ancient Egypt and the Roman Empire. The dye from the plant is used in temporary tattoos.