Cassia fistula, commonly called Golden Shower Tree or Indian Laburnum, as the name suggests, originated in the Indian sub-continent and South-East Asia.
The flower is the state flower of Kerala in India and the national flower of Thailand, symbolizing Thai royalty.
This magnificent ornamental tree can be found throughout the Caribbean and Florida. It is often planted as a shade tree to line the streets, parks and the boulevards of many tropical cities. Cassia fistula grows to a height of approximately 40ft and produces fragrant yellow blossoms in large numbers with drooping racemes approximately 30 cm long, resembling huge bunches of grapes. Each flower comprises 5 yellow petals with the stamens exposed. After fertilization each pistil develops into a long, brown fruit pod.
This tree can be grown from seeds. A Cassia fistula was planted in the Demerara Distillers Ltd Head Office compound, at Plantation Diamond by His Royal Highness Prince Charles when he visited Guyana. Cassia fistula is becoming a sight for sore eyes as very few are around. One can be seen in the Promenade Gardens.
Until next week, Happy Gardening.
