Golden shower tree (Cassia fistula)

Also known as: Golden rain, Indian laburnum, Golden shower, Purging fistula

The Golden Shower Tree, known scientifically as Cassia fistula, is prevalent in tropical and subtropical areas and reaches its full bloom in mid-summer. This tree holds dual significance in Thailand, being both the national flower and the national tree.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Golden shower tree

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Tree

Plant Height

15 m

Spread

12 m

Leaf Color

Green Blue

Flower Size

4 cm

Flower Color

Yellow

Images of Golden shower tree

Quickly Identify Golden shower tree

Cassia fistula can be identified by its bright yellow, cascading flower clusters, which appear in late spring to early summer. The tree\'s leaves are compound pinnate with multiple pairs of leaflets, and the pods are long, dark brown, and cylindrical.

Scientific Classification of Golden shower tree

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Fabales

Family

Legume

Genus

Cassias

Species

Golden shower tree

Planting and Growing of Golden shower tree

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 2 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

4-8 hours

Ideal Temperature

70-85℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Golden shower tree?

Cassia fistula, commonly known as the golden shower tree, prefers moderate watering conditions. About 500 ml of water is usually sufficient to ensure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Always allow the top layer of the soil to dry out between waterings for optimal growth.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Golden shower tree? ›

What should I do if my Golden shower tree is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Golden shower tree? ›

How to save an overwatered Golden shower tree? ›

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What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Golden shower tree?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun

Duration of light: 6 to 8 hours

Cassia fistula thrives in full sunlight exposure, benefiting significantly from six to eight hours of daily light. This rich sun exposure enables maximum growth and abundant flowering, optimizing the plant's ornamental value.

How much sunlight does Cassia fistula need? ›

What are the best locations to place Cassia fistula? ›

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What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Golden shower tree?

Ideal Temperature: 70 ~ 85℉

Cassia fistula, also known as the golden shower tree, thrives in warm climates. The ideal temperature range for its growth is between 70°F and 85°F. This range supports optimal photosynthesis and respiration processes, allowing the plant to produce vibrant flowers and maintain strong growth. Keeping the temperature within this range will ensure the plant's health and vigor.

What Soil is Best for Golden shower tree?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam, Clay soil

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Cassia fistula thrives in well-drained soil, which prevents waterlogging and root rot. This type of soil enhances oxygen availability to the roots, promoting healthy and robust growth. Soils with moderate fertility are ideal for Cassia fistula, ensuring that the plant receives essential nutrients without the risk of nutrient overload, which can hinder plant health. Although well-drained, Cassia fistula benefits from soil that retains some moisture, supporting sustained growth during dry spells and reducing the need for frequent watering. More About Soil→

How to Fertilize Golden shower tree?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

Cassia fistula, also known as the golden shower tree, benefits from a balanced fertilizer. Typically, a ratio of 10-10-10 (N-P-K) is recommended. For liquid fertilizers, dilute them to about half the strength to prevent root burn. Use around 1 liter per mature plant per application. More About Fertilizing Techniques→

How to Prune Golden shower tree?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer

Begin by inspecting the Cassia fistula for any dead or diseased branches. Mark these for removal to improve airflow and sunlight penetration, boosting the plant's overall health. Make clean cuts at a slight angle to prevent water from sitting on the wound. Ensure you're cutting just above a healthy node to stimulate new growth from the point of pruning. Trim strategic branches to maintain the tree’s symmetry and encourage a canopy shape that is both aesthetically pleasing and structurally sound. This promotes balance in growth and reduces wind resistance. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Golden shower tree plant?

Propagate Time: Late spring, Early summer

Gather mature pods from the parent tree when they turn dark brown. Crack open the pods to extract the seeds; they should be dry and viable for planting.

Select healthy, non-flowering branches and cut them into 4-6 inch sections. Make sure each cutting has a few nodes to encourage root development.

For seeds, plant them in a seed tray with a well-draining soil mix and lightly cover with soil. For cuttings, dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant in a pot filled with moist potting mix.

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How to Repot Golden shower tree plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

Cassia fistula, commonly known as the golden shower tree, requires repotting when roots begin to outgrow the current pot, often visible as roots peeking out of drainage holes. Additionally, if water drains through the pot too quickly or the growth appears stunted, it’s a sign that the plant may need more space to thrive. Opt for repotting during the active growing season to minimize stress.

Select a pot that’s 2-3 inches larger in diameter than the current one to provide the roots with ample space to expand. A pot with good drainage holes is essential, as it prevents waterlogging and root rot, ensuring that Cassia fistula's roots can breathe. Terra cotta pots are a good choice due to their porosity, providing adequate ventilation.

The ideal soil is well-draining sandy loam, which balances water retention and drainage perfectly for Cassia fistula. Such soil mimics the plant’s natural environment, offering the roots the right texture and nutrients they need for healthy growth and development. You may also add some organic matter to enhance fertility.

Toxicity of Golden shower tree

Is Golden shower tree toxic to humans?

The golden shower tree is a poisonous species when ingested. Its seeds harbor toxins that can lead to harmful effects in humans. Individuals might unintentionally consume these seeds while utilizing other parts of the plant for medicinal use, often unaware of the associated risks.

Is Golden shower tree toxic to cat?

The golden shower tree has a low toxicity level that can be harmful to cats if any parts of the plant are consumed in excessive quantities. Cats exposed to the golden shower tree may experience physical distress or exhibit symptoms of illness. To reduce potential health hazards, it is essential for cat owners to closely monitor their pets and deter them from eating the plant. Should there be any suspicion of poisoning, prompt veterinary care is essential to safeguard the health and well-being of the affected feline.

Is Golden shower tree toxic to dog?

The golden shower tree is recognized as having a mild level of toxicity for dogs. If ingested in significant quantities, this plant can poison dogs. All components of the golden shower tree are toxic, which implies that the consumption of any part, including leaves, flowers, seeds, or bark, poses a risk of poisoning. The symptoms associated with poisoning can differ, potentially manifesting as gastrointestinal distress like vomiting and diarrhea. It is essential for dog owners to supervise their pets closely and restrict their access to the golden shower tree, particularly since dogs may be lured by its various parts. If a dog does consume any part of the golden shower tree, it is crucial to obtain immediate veterinary assistance to ensure the best possible outcome for the animal.

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.

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