Maintenance Landscaping Design

Cassia tree is a plant that is native to tropical and subtropical regions of the world. The leaves of the cassia tree are used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of illnesses. The cassia tree is also used in traditional Chinese medicine. The bark of the cassia tree is used to make a tea that is said to have a number of health benefits.

Also called

• Senna alata
  
• Senna obtusifolia
  
• Cassia fistula
  
• Cassia grandis
  
• Cassia javanica

Things to Know

• The cassia tree is a small to medium-sized tree that can grow up to 20 m tall.
  
• It has a wide, spreading crown and a straight, cylindrical trunk.
  
• The leaves are oblong to lanceolate, 10-20 cm long and 2-6 cm wide, with a serrated margin.
  
• The flowers are bisexual, yellow, and borne in axillary or terminal clusters.
  
• The fruit is a long, thin, brown-black capsule, 10-20 cm long and 2-3 cm wide, containing several small, black seeds.
  
• The cassia tree is native to tropical and subtropical regions of Asia, Africa, and Australia.
  
• It has been introduced to many other parts of the world, including the Americas, where it has become naturalized in some areas.
  
• The cassia tree is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant and has also been used in traditional medicine.
  
• Extracts from the tree's bark and leaves are used in various herbal remedies.
  
• The cassia tree is also the source of cassia oil, which is used in perfumes, cosmetics, and soaps.

Related plant:
Cassia Fistula

Planting Process

1. For cassia tree, first step is to find a good location. The tree prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
   
2. Prepare the planting site by removing all weeds and grasses within a 3-foot diameter of where the cassia tree will be planted.
   
3. Amend the soil with compost or other organic matter to improve drainage.
   
4. Dig a hole twice the width and depth of the tree’s root ball.
   
5. Place the tree in the hole and backfill with soil, tamping down gently as you go.
   
6. Water the tree deeply immediately after planting.
   
7. Apply a 2-inch layer of mulch around the tree, keeping it several inches away from the trunk.
   
8. Water the tree regularly during the first growing season, allowing the soil to dry out somewhat between watering.
   
9. Fertilize the tree in early spring with a balanced fertilizer formulated for trees and shrubs.
   
10. Prune cassia tree as needed to shape and control its growth.

The Soil

About soil condition, the cassia tree grows best in medium to heavy textured, well drained soils with a neutral to slightly acid pH. It is not tolerant of highly alkaline soils. It also has low tolerance for salty soils and will not tolerate being waterlogged. In its natural environment, the cassia tree is found growing on the edges of rainforests, in open woodlands, and on seasonally flooded plains.

About light

Just like other trees, the cassia tree needs sunlight in order to grow. However, it is not as demanding as some other trees when it comes to the amount of sunlight it needs. The cassia tree can grow in both full sun and partial shade. This makes it a good choice for gardens that don’t get a lot of sun.

Good Temperature

The temperature condition that is best for the cassia tree is warm weather. This tree is not tolerant of cold weather and should be protected from frost. The ideal temperature range for the cassia tree is between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit.

Humidity Aspect

Ideal humidity condition for this plant is around 50%. They do best in bright, indirect light but can adapt to lower light conditions. Water when the top few inches of soil are dry. Allow the plant to dry out between waterings to prevent root rot. If you live in a very dry climate, you may need to mist your plant daily to keep the leaves from drying out and becoming crispy.

Fertilizer Requirement

Regarding fertilizer, this kind of plant is not really demanding. It can live in poor soils, as long as the drainage is good. An important requirement for the plant to develop properly is a deep and wide root system, which allows it to anchor itself firmly in the ground and absorb all the necessary nutrients.

Plant Pruning

Pruning is a vital part of keeping your cassia tree healthy and looking its best. Unfortunately, it's often overlooked or done improperly. Pruning not only helps to control the size and shape of your tree, but can also improve air circulation and promote new growth. When pruning your cassia tree, be sure to use sharp, clean pruning shears. Remove any dead, diseased, or damaged branches, as well as any branches that are crossing or rubbing against each other. You should also prune away any suckers or water sprouts.

Plant Propagation

Propagation of the cassia tree is generally done by seed, although cuttings can be taken from young trees. Seeds must be fresh to germinate well, and they are often sown immediately after they are harvested. The seeds are scarified before planting to improve germination. Cassia trees can also be propagated by air-layering.

Growth Rate

Usually, the plant growth rate is fast, however, some species have a slow growth rate. The bark of the tree is smooth and silvery-white in color. The leaves are simple and arranged in an opposite fashion on the stem. The flowers of the cassia tree are bright yellow and very showy. The fruits of the tree are long, thin, and flat.

Common Problems

Common problems for this kind of plant are root-knot nematodes, caterpillars, Cassia scale, and sooty mold. If the tree is not well taken care of, these problems will become more severe and will eventually kill the tree.

Growing Tips

• Remember to water your cassia tree regularly, as it will need plenty of water to stay healthy and grow well.
  
• Place your cassia tree in an area of your garden that receives full sun for best growth and flowering.
  
• Amend the soil around your cassia tree with organic matter such as compost or manure before planting to improve drainage and help the roots establish.
  
• Fertilize your cassia tree twice a year with a balanced fertilizer to encourage healthy growth.
  
• Prune your cassia tree regularly to keep it tidy and encourage new growth.
  
• Keep an eye out for pests and diseases, and treat them promptly if you see any signs.
  
• harvest the pods when they are dry and brown, and then split them open to collect the seeds.
  
• To propagate cassia trees, sow the seeds in pots filled with moist, well-drained potting mix.
  

You May Like

• Cassia angustifolia
  
• Cassia auriculata
  
• Cassia alata
  
• Cassia abbreviata
  
• Cassia abbeyi
  
• Cassia acuta
  
• Cassia acutangula
  
• Cassia africana
  
• Cassiaagre
  
• Cassia albicans

Source:
Managing Pests in Gardens: Trees and Shrubs: Cassia—UC IPM - ucanr.edu
Discover Nature at JCU - Cassia javanica - JCU Australia
Senna bicapsularis - North Carolina State University