Cassia spectabilis, Senna spectabilis, Senna macranthera

Cassia spectabilis requires full sun for best growth although it will tolerate semi-shade, with regular water in summer and occasional water in winter. The mature plant is cold hardy at least to low 30s F (0C) for a short time. When grown in a pot, the soil should be allowed to dry out slightly between waterings. It is best not to over-water it. It is a tropical species, native to the South-East Asia, that grows to 10-20 feet tall in USDA Zones 9-11. It produces very showy yellow and orange flowers, which are fragrant and attract butterflies and hummingbirds.

This ornamental plant is tolerant of pruning and can make an excellent hedge/bower or a trellis as it clings easily and is moderate fast growing. It can be maintained at a lower height as well. Cassia spectabilis needs a sheltered position, preferrably with a south or south-east facing aspect when grown in cold regions. In cold regions it is best to bring the potted plant indoors in winter or to insulate the pot for additional cold protection. Cassia spectabilis is an outstanding, long-blooming, cold hardy and easy to grow tropical tree or large shrub, ideal for both home and landscape gardens.

Similar plants:

• Cassia antillana, Senna nitida, Chamaefistula antillana, Cassia aurea (Golden Rain tree)
• Cassia bahamensis, Senna mexicana chapmanii (Bahama Senna, Bahama Cassia)
• Cassia occidentalis, Senna occidentalis, Cassia ligustrina (Coffee Senna, Fedegoso, Privet Cassia)
• Senna alata, Cassia alata (Empress candle plant, Candle Bush, Carrion Crow Bush, Candlesticks)
• Senna bicapsularis, Cassia bicapsularis, Cassia sennoides (Butterfly Cassia, Butterfly Bush, Winter Cassia)
• Senna corymbosa, Cassia falcata (Southern Cassia, Flowery Senna, Argentina Senna)
• Senna floribunda, Cassia floribunda (Golden Showy Cassia, Devils Finger)
• Senna multijuga, Cassia multijuga (False Sicklepod)
• Senna polyphylla, Cassia biflora, Cassia microphylla,Cassia polyphylla, Cassia tenuissima, Peiranisia polyphylla (Desert Cassia)
• Senna sp., Cassia sp. (Cassia)