Overview
Cassia fistulosa L. ex Long & Lakela, also known as the Golden Shower Tree or Indian Laburnum, is a flowering tree that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is native to South Asia and Southeast Asia and has been introduced to other parts of the world as a decorative plant.
General Appearance
The Golden Shower Tree is a medium-sized deciduous tree that can grow up to 10-20 meters in height. It has a smooth gray bark and a spreading crown that forms a broad, rounded top. The tree produces lush green leaves that are pinnate, with each leaf consisting of 3-8 pairs of small leaflets and a terminal one.
During the flowering season, the Cassia fistulosa produces clusters of bright yellow, fragrant flowers that can reach up to 60 cm in length. The fruit that follows is a long, flat pod that can be up to 60 cm in length and 2 cm in width. Each pod contains numerous seeds that are surrounded by a sweet and edible pulp.
Common Names
The Golden Shower Tree is also called by various local names such as Amaltas in Hindi, Konrai in Tamil, Kaniar in Malayalam, and Sona or Sundari in Bengali to name a few.
Uses
The Golden Shower Tree has been used for traditional medicinal purposes such as for the treatment of constipation and increasing appetite. The pulp of the fruit has been used to treat skin diseases and as a laxative. Additionally, the tree is a source of wood that is used for furniture, musical instruments, and fuel. The flowers and pods of the tree are used in traditional ceremonies and as decorative material.
Due to its beauty and colorful flowers, the Golden Shower Tree is commonly planted as an ornamental tree in parks, gardens, and along roadsides. Its tolerance to heat and low water requirements make it suitable for arid environments.
Light Requirements
Cassia fistulosa, commonly known as the golden shower tree, requires full sunlight to grow and thrive. It is a sun-loving plant that requires at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight exposure daily for optimal growth. It is not recommended to grow the plant in shaded areas as it may limit the production of flowers and pods.
Temperature Requirements
Cassia fistulosa is native to tropical regions and grows well in a warm and humid climate. The ideal temperature range for the plant is between 20°C to 28°C (68°F to 82°F). It can withstand high temperatures but cannot tolerate frost or cold weather conditions. The plant grows well in areas with a consistent temperature and low fluctuations.
Soil Requirements
The golden shower tree requires well-drained soil that is fertile and rich in organic matter. The pH level of the soil should be between 6.0 to 7.5 for optimal growth. It can tolerate different soil types such as sandy, clay, and loam soils, provided they are well-drained. The plant requires regular watering, especially during the dry season, to keep the soil moist.
Cultivation methods for Cassia fistulosa L. ex Long & Lakela
Cassia fistulosa L. ex Long & Lakela, also known as the Golden Shower Tree, is a tropical plant that can grow up to 33 feet tall and wide. It thrives in a well-draining soil environment and requires full sun exposure for optimal growth. To cultivate this plant, start by selecting a location with plenty of sunlight and well-draining soil.
Once you have identified an appropriate location, dig a hole that is twice the width of the root ball of the plant. Add compost or fertilizer to the hole and mix it with the surrounding soil. Place the plant in the hole and backfill with soil, ensuring that the crown of the plant is level with the soil surface. Finally, water the plant thoroughly to help it settle into its new surroundings.
Watering needs for Cassia fistulosa L. ex Long & Lakela
Cassia fistulosa L. ex Long & Lakela requires regular watering, especially during the first year of growth. Once the plant is established, it can tolerate periods of drought, but it will still require regular watering during prolonged periods of dry weather. To prevent overwatering, wait until the top inch of soil is dry before watering the plant again.
Fertilizing Cassia fistulosa L. ex Long & Lakela
Fertilizing Cassia fistulosa L. ex Long & Lakela is essential to promote healthy growth and flowering. Apply a slow-release fertilizer during the growing season, starting in early spring and feeding every 6-8 weeks. Alternatively, you can apply a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 2-3 weeks during the growing season. Avoid fertilizing the plant during the winter months when it is dormant.
Pruning Cassia fistulosa L. ex Long & Lakela
Pruning Cassia fistulosa L. ex Long & Lakela is essential to maintain its shape and promote healthy growth. The best time to prune the plant is immediately after flowering in late spring or early summer. To prune the plant, remove any dead, diseased, or damaged wood, and cut back any overgrown branches to the desired length. Avoid pruning the plant too heavily, as this can negatively impact its growth and flowering.
Propagation of Cassia Fistulosa L. Ex Long & Lakela
Cassia fistulosa L. ex Long & Lakela, commonly known as Golden Shower Tree or Indian Laburnum, is a tropical, deciduous tree that is native to Asia and parts of Africa. It is a popular ornamental tree due to its showy yellow flowers which bloom profusely during the summer months. The tree can be propagated easily by using either sexual or asexual propagation methods.
Sexual Propagation
Cassia fistulosa can be propagated through seed, which is the most common method. Seeds should be collected from mature pods when they turn brown. The seeds should be soaked overnight in water and scarified before planting in a well-draining soil mix. The seeds should be covered with a light layer of soil and kept in a warm, humid location until they germinate, which usually takes 7-14 days.
Asexual Propagation
Cassia fistulosa can also be propagated through vegetative means such as cuttings or layering. Semi-hardwood stem cuttings should be taken during the monsoon season and treated with rooting hormone before being planted in moist soil. In layering, a low branch is chosen and a slit is made where the branch touches the ground. The branch is then fixed in place with a small stake or rock. Once roots have developed, the branch can be cut from the main plant and transplanted.
Air-layering is another effective method where a section of the stem is slit and then wrapped in moist moss and plastic film. Roots will grow from the cut section and once these roots have developed, the branch can be cut from the parent plant and replanted. Semi-hardwood and hardwood cuttings can also be grafted onto rootstock to produce new plants.
While sexual propagation is easy and reliable, it is important to select the best parent trees with desirable characteristics to produce high-quality progeny. Asexual propagation methods such as cuttings and layering can help maintain the desirable characteristics of the parent plant.
Disease Management
Cassia fistulosa L. ex Long & Lakela is a relatively hardy plant that is resistant to many diseases. However, it can be affected by some diseases that can cause significant damage to the plant.
One of the most common diseases that affect Cassia fistulosa is leaf spot. This disease is caused by a fungus that attacks the leaves, causing yellowing and eventually dropping of the leaves. To manage this disease, it is essential to keep the plant dry and regularly prune it to improve air circulation. If the disease is severe, fungicides may be necessary to manage the problem.
Another disease that can affect Cassia fistulosa is root rot. This disease is caused by a fungus that attacks the roots of the plant. Symptoms of root rot include yellowing leaves, wilting, and stunted growth. To manage this disease, the soil around the plant must be well-drained, and it is crucial not to overwater the plant. Infected plants may need to be removed and destroyed to prevent the spread of the disease to other plants in the area.
Pest Management
Cassia fistulosa L. ex Long & Lakela can also be affected by pests that can cause significant damage to the plant. Proper management of pests is critical to keep the plant healthy and promote optimal growth.
One of the most common pests that can affect Cassia fistulosa is the leafhopper. These pests feed on plant sap, causing yellowing and curling of the leaves. To manage these pests, it is important to regularly inspect the plant for any signs of infestation. Neem oil and insecticidal soap can be effective in managing leafhoppers.
Another pest that can affect Cassia fistulosa is the stem-girdling borer. These pests feed on the stem, causing wilting and eventually killing the plant. To manage these pests, it is important to prune the plant regularly to remove any infested branches. Tree wraps can also be used to keep the pests away from the base of the plant.
Overall, proper management of diseases and pests is essential for the optimal growth and health of Cassia fistulosa L. ex Long & Lakela. By regularly inspecting the plant and taking appropriate measures to manage any problems that arise, it is possible to keep the plant healthy and thriving.
