Cassia fistula, commonly known as the golden shower tree or Indian laburnum, is a stunning deciduous tree celebrated for its vibrant, cascading clusters of golden-yellow flowers. Belonging to the Fabaceae family, this tree typically reaches heights between 10 to 20 meters, featuring a spreading canopy of pinnate leaves that provide a lush backdrop to its striking blooms. The pendulous flower racemes, which can span up to 50 centimeters, adorn the tree during the spring season, exuding a sweet fragrance and attracting various pollinators. Following the floral display, elongated pods appear, containing numerous seeds embedded in a pulp. The tree thrives in tropical and subtropical regions, preferring well-draining soil and ample sunlight. Known for its ornamental value, Cassia fistula also holds cultural significance in many regions and is admired for its beauty in gardens, parks, and landscapes. Zones 10-11
Germination
The seed germination process for Cassia fistula, the golden shower tree, typically begins with scarification to break the hard seed coat, allowing water absorption and initiating germination. Scarification involves nicking or filing the seed coat slightly. Once scarified, the seeds are often soaked in water for about 24 hours before sowing. Sowing the seeds in well-draining, fertile soil at a depth of around 2 to 3 centimeters is recommended. The optimal temperature for germination ranges between 25 to 30 degrees Celsius. Adequate moisture is crucial during the germination period, but waterlogging should be avoided to prevent seed rot. Given suitable conditions, germination usually occurs within 2 to 4 weeks after sowing. Cassia fistula seeds tend to exhibit variability in germination rates, and patience is often required as some seeds may take longer to sprout.
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