Cassia fistula, commonly called the golden shower tree, is native to India, Malaysia and Southeast Asia.
Cassia fistula is widely grown in the tropics and has adapted well in Guyana and the Caribbean. It is a medium-sized, ornamental tree with a straight trunk and spreading branches that form an open crown. It is well-known for producing a show-stopping bloom of yellow flowers in May-June/July.
Its leaves usually drop in April as a prelude to the arrival of its five-petaled, bright yellow flowers, which are lightly scented.
The leaves return as the flowering progresses, with foliage totally restored by July. This tree is often considered to be semi-deciduous or semi-evergreen because of this brief loss of leaves. A second less significant bloom often occurs in September but without the loss of leaves.
The flowers are followed by slender, woody bean pods which emerge green but mature to black, remaining on the tree until the following year. The sticky brown pulp inside the pods has been used in herbal medicines. The golden shower tree is the national tree of Thailand.
We need to plant more trees in Guyana. Cassia fistula would be a great option for planting since they are becoming a rare sight especially around the city.
Until next week, Happy Gardening.
