Taxonomy

Division:

Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants

Family:

Fabaceae

Genus:

Cassia

Species:

Cassia afrofistula

USDA Symbol:

CAAF2

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:

Perennial

Growth Habit:

Tree

Height:

600 cm

Drought Tolerance:

High

Bloom Months:

apr,may,jun,jul

Bloom Colors:

yellow

Landscaping Shrub:

Yes

Wildlife Benefits

Bees:

★☆☆☆☆ Documented bee visitation (GBIF)

Butterflies & Moths:

★☆☆☆☆ Documented Lepidoptera association (GBIF)

Keystone Species Ranking

Caterpillar Keystone:

★★★☆☆ Butterfly & moth species supported by this genus (NWF)

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:

bees, butterflies

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:

well-drained, sandy loam soil

pH:

5.5 - 7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)

Drainage:

excellent drainage required

Moisture:

dry to moderate

Notes:

thrives in open, sunny locations

Propagation & Germination

Scarification:

Seed coat scarification required before sowing

Germination Time:

14–30 days

Notes:

Seeds benefit from scarification (nicking or hot water treatment) to break hard seed coat.