Cassia fistula – Golden Shower Tree

Description

Cassia fistula – Golden Shower Tree

Family: Fabaceae
Packet Size: 8 seeds

Description

Cassia fistula is an elegant flowering tree originally from the Indian subcontinent and Sri Lanka. Its long, drooping flower clusters are filled with clear golden-yellow blooms, creating a spectacular cascading display during favourable warm weather.

This much-loved tropical ornamental develops a broad, open crown and may drop its leaves during a dry or cooler season. The long, cylindrical pods following flowering are a distinctive feature of the species.

Key Features

• Flowers: Abundant golden-yellow blossoms hanging in long racemes.
• Foliage: Large pinnate leaves forming a light, spreading canopy.
• Fruit: Distinctive long cylindrical seed pods that can remain on the tree.

Growing Conditions

• Light: Full sun encourages strong growth and flowering.
• Soil: Free-draining soil; avoid saturated roots, especially while young.
• Climate: Tropical and subtropical conditions; protect seedlings from frost.
• Care: Allow room for a mature tree, water young plants regularly and prune only to develop good structure.

Propagation from Seed

1. Prepare: Carefully nick or file the hard seed coat without damaging the embryo, then soak in warm water overnight.
2. Sow: Place about 10–15 mm deep in well-drained seed-raising mix.
3. Germinate: Maintain steady warmth and light, even moisture; germination may be variable.
4. Grow on: Transplant when seedlings have developed sturdy roots; avoid damaging the taproot.

Growing Note

The seeds and other plant parts are not food. Keep seeds away from children and pets, and do not consume them. Check local guidance before planting a potentially self-seeding introduced tree.

Germination advice: These instructions are a recommended guide. Germination results and timing may vary depending on seed freshness, storage, temperature and growing conditions. Alternative propagation methods may also be successful.