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Description
Cassia Javanica, commonly known as the Pink Shower Tree, is a flowering tree native to Southeast Asia. It belongs to the Fabaceae family and is known for its beautiful pink flowers that bloom in clusters during the spring season. The tree can grow up to 20 meters tall and has a wide canopy that provides ample shade. The Pink Shower Tree is a popular ornamental tree and is widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions around the world.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Cassia |
Appearance
The Pink Shower Tree has a smooth, grayish-brown bark with a broad canopy that creates ample shade. Its leaves are pinnate and can grow up to 30 cm long, with each leaflet measuring around 2-6 cm. The tree’s flowers are the main attraction, with large clusters of pink, fragrant blooms that can reach up to 30 cm in length. The Pink Shower Tree also produces long, brown seed pods that can grow up to 60 cm in length.
Care Guide
To care for the Pink Shower Tree, it is important to provide it with adequate water, fertilization, soil, sunlight, and to ensure it is grown in the appropriate hardiness zones.Water: The Pink Shower Tree requires regular watering, especially during the dry season. Make sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer during the growing season to ensure the tree receives adequate nutrients.Soil: The Pink Shower Tree prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.Sunlight: The tree thrives in full sun but can also tolerate partial shade.Hardiness Zones: The Pink Shower Tree is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Pink Shower Tree is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be prone to leaf spot and root rot if overwatered. Occasionally, the tree can also be affected by aphids or spider mites, which can be controlled using insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
The Pink Shower Tree is native to Southeast Asia and is commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions around the world. It prefers warm, humid climates and can grow in a variety of soil types.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Pink Shower Tree be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the Pink Shower Tree can be grown in containers, but it will require regular pruning to control its size.
Q: How often should the Pink Shower Tree be fertilized?
A: Apply a balanced fertilizer once every three months during the growing season.
Q: How long does it take for the Pink Shower Tree to mature?
A: The Pink Shower Tree can take up to 5-7 years to reach maturity.
Q: Can the Pink Shower Tree tolerate salt spray?
A: No, the Pink Shower Tree is not salt-tolerant and should not be grown in coastal areas.
Related Plants
- Cassia fistula
- Cassia alata
- Cassia grandis
- Cassia javanica var. nodosa
References
- “Cassia javanica.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 13, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a461.
- “Cassia javanica.” Plantz Africa. Accessed September 13, 2021. https://www.plantzafrica.com/plantcd/cassjavan.htm.
- “Cassia javanica.” World Agroforestry. Accessed September 13, 2021. https://www.worldagroforestry.org/treedb2/AFTPDFS/Cassia_javanica.PDF.
