Cassia Fistula

Description

Cassia Fistula, commonly known as the Golden Shower Tree, is a beautiful flowering plant native to Southeast Asia and the Indian subcontinent. It belongs to the Fabaceae family, which is the third largest flowering plant family in the world. The plant produces long, drooping clusters of bright yellow flowers, which are followed by long, flat seed pods. The plant is often grown as an ornamental tree in gardens and parks due to its beautiful flowers and attractive foliage.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

The Golden Shower Tree is a medium-sized deciduous tree that can grow up to 10-20 meters tall. The tree has an umbrella-like crown with a spread of about 10-15 meters. The leaves are compound, with 3-8 pairs of leaflets, and are about 15-60 cm long. The flowers are bright yellow and bloom in long, drooping clusters that can be up to 60 cm long. The seed pods are long and flat, about 30-60 cm long, and contain about 20-30 seeds.

Care Guide

Cassia Fistula is a relatively low-maintenance plant, but it does require some care to thrive. Here are some tips for caring for your Golden Shower Tree:

• Water: The plant prefers moderate watering, and the soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering during the dormant season.
• Fertilization: The plant benefits from regular fertilization during the growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
• Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A pH of 6.0-7.5 is ideal.
• Sunlight: The plant prefers full sunlight, but it can also tolerate partial shade.
• Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.

Common Pests & Diseases

Golden Shower Trees are generally resistant to pests and diseases, but they may occasionally be affected by some common problems. Here are some of the most common pests and diseases that may affect your Golden Shower Tree:

• Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects can be found on the undersides of leaves and can cause stunted growth and yellowing of leaves.
• Caterpillars: These larvae of moths and butterflies can feed on the leaves and cause defoliation.
• Fungal Leaf Spot: This fungal disease can cause brown or black spots on the leaves and can lead to defoliation.
• Root Rot: This fungal disease can cause the roots to rot and can lead to wilting and death of the plant.

Habitat

Cassia Fistula is native to Southeast Asia and the Indian subcontinent, where it grows in tropical and subtropical regions. The plant prefers well-draining soil and full sunlight, but it can also tolerate partial shade. It is often grown as an ornamental tree in gardens and parks due to its beautiful flowers and attractive foliage.

Question and Answer

Q: Can I grow Cassia Fistula in a container?
A: Yes, you can grow the plant in a container, but make sure the container is large enough to accommodate the roots and that it has good drainage.

Q: How often should I prune my Golden Shower Tree?
A: Prune the tree once a year after the blooming season to shape it and remove dead or damaged branches.

Q: Can Golden Shower Trees be grown from seed?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown from seed, but it may take several years for the tree to bloom.

Q: Is Cassia Fistula toxic to pets?
A: Yes, the plant is toxic to pets if ingested, and can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and other symptoms. Keep the plant out of reach of pets.

Related Plants

• Cassia Alata
• Cassia Javanica
• Cassia Nodosa
• Cassia Occidentalis
• Cassia Tora

References

• “Cassia Fistula.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b184. Accessed 1 Nov. 2021.
• “Golden Shower Tree.” Gardening Know How, www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/golden-shower-tree/golden-shower-tree-care.htm. Accessed 1 Nov. 2021.
• “Cassia Fistula.” Plant Care Today, plantcaretoday.com/cassia-fistula-the-golden-shower-tree. Accessed 1 Nov. 2021.