Cassia

Michael G. Andreu, Melissa H. Friedman, andRobert J. Northrop

A UF/IFAS numbered publication.

Michael G. Andreu, Melissa H. Friedman, and Robert J. Northrop

The Kenyan cassia can be used as a showy ornamental tree or shrub, with its dark foliage and bright yellow flowers. Some people find the seed pods to be unattractive and prune the tree after it flowers to prevent pods from developing. This tree tolerates a wide range of soil types and can be used in a garden, park, patio, or streetscape setting.

Michael G. Andreu, Melissa H. Friedman, and Robert J. Northrop

The gold medallion tree is planted primarily as a shade tree or as a decorative specimen for the yard or street. Many people like this tree because of its fast growth rate and showy, bright yellow clusters of flowers that bloom in the summer months. This tree loses its leaves for a very short period each year, but leaves are quickly replaced. Pruning the tree to one main leading stem from which major branches are attached can help increase its strength and sturdiness against strong wind events.