Golden Shower Tree
Cassia fistula · Deciduous (often semi-evergreen in humid tropics), Broadleaf, Flowering Ornamental
Plant Family
Fabaceae (Legume Family)
Tree Category
Flowering Ornamental, Shade Tree, Street Tree
Variety / Cultivar
Standard species (Cassia fistula)
Hardiness Zones
USDA Hardiness Zones 10-11; very sensitive to frost and cold temperatures.
About This Tree
A medium-sized tree with an upright, spreading crown. It is famous for its pendulous racemes of bright yellow flowers that hang like grapes. The form is somewhat irregular and open, providing light shade.
Leaf Characteristics
Pinnately compound, alternate arrangement, 12-24 inches long with 4-8 pairs of ovate leaflets. Leaflets are deep green, smooth, and roughly 3-6 inches long.
Bark Characteristics
Smooth and greenish-grey on young trees, becoming rough, brown, and increasingly fissured or scaly with age as seen on the main trunk of this specimen.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Native to the Indian Subcontinent and Southeast Asia; widely adapted to tropical regions like Florida, Hawaii, and the Caribbean.
Growing Season
Flowering typically occurs in late spring to early summer (April-July). It may briefly drop its leaves before or during the flowering period to showcase blooms. Seed pods persist through winter.
Sunlight & Water Needs
Full Sun is required for best flowering. Needs regular watering during establishment but possesses moderate drought tolerance once mature; prefers well-drained soil.
Mature Size
Typically reaches 30-40 feet in height with a similar spread. Growth rate is fast. Lifespan is approximately 50-70 years in ideal conditions.
Special Characteristics
National flower of Thailand. Known for its medicinal properties (pulp of the pod is a laxative) and dramatic yellow fall-like flowering. Highly tolerant of urban pollution.
Wildlife & Ecology
Attracts bees, butterflies, and nectar-seeking birds. Host plant for various Pierid butterflies (sulphurs). The dense wood and pods provide limited nesting and food for local fauna.