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Botanical names: Cassia antillana, Senna nitida, Chamaefistula antillana, Cassia aurea

Common name: Golden Rain tree

Family: Fabaceae

Subfamily: Caesalpinioideae

Origin: South Asia

The growth habits of the Cassia antillana varies according to the climate in which it is grown. In USDA hardiness zones 9 through 11, it will grow as a large shrub 5 to 10 feet in height and 8 to 10 feet wide. In the warmer regions of zones 9 to 11, the Cassia antillana can reach the size of a small tree, 10 to 20 feet tall and wide. The tree can also be grown in a pot in cooler regions as long as it is brought indoors or placed in a sheltered location in the winter.

When grown outside, this tree thrives in full sun and regular watering. The foliage of the tree is delicate and a deep glossy green color. As the tree is in bloom, it produces sprays of drooping, yellow and orange flowers. These flowers remain on the tree for a long period of time, providing long-term interest in the garden.

Cassia antillana is an ideal choice for brightening up any spot in the garden. Requiring minimal care once established and thriving in both partial and full sun areas, this tree provides a beautiful focal point with its bright yellow and orange flowers. With regular watering and appropriate care, this tree will provide beauty in the garden for years to come.

Botanical names: Cassia bahamensis, Senna mexicana chapmanii

Common names: Bahama Senna, Bahama Cassia

Family: Fabaceae

Subfamily: Caesalpinioideae

Origin: Florida, Bahamas and Cuba

USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map

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Cassia is a large genus with some 500 species. Cassia likes full sun and well-drained soil and to bloom profusely require a dry season.

Botanical names: Cassia occidentalis, Senna occidentalis, Cassia ligustrina

Common names: Coffee Senna, Fedegoso, Privet Cassia

Family: Fabaceae

Subfamily: Caesalpinioideae

Origin: South America

Medium size shrub or small tree with orange-yellow flowers from spring to fall. From distance, flowers look like little yellow hummingbirds and attract butterflies and bees. The plant is very ornamental not only due to its bloom but also to large, red-veined leaves.

Cassia occidentalis is a low-maintenance, medium-sized shrub that adds vibrant beauty and practical benefits to your landscape. From spring to fall, it produces clusters of orange-yellow flowers that attract butterflies and bees, while its large, red-veined leaves provide ornamental appeal year-round. Thriving in full sun to partial shade, this drought- and cold-tolerant plant is perfect for gardeners seeking beauty with minimal care. Its spreading habit also makes it ideal for creating natural hedges or privacy screens. Named for its coffee bean-like seeds, Coffee Senna is part of the Senna genus, known for its medicinal uses. Beyond aesthetics, it offers health benefits, including digestive aid, respiratory support, skin health, and a rich source of iron and minerals.

Botanical names: Cassia spectabilis, Senna spectabilis, Senna macranthera

Common names: Cassia, Scented Shower

Family: Fabaceae

Subfamily: Caesalpinioideae

Origin: South-East Asia

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.