Caribbean Rain Tree, Pink Shower
cassia grandis
Also known as: ["Pink Shower Tree","Cascada Rosa"]
Overview
A deciduous tree native to Central and South America, known for its striking pinkish-red flowers that bloom in long racemes, typically in the dry season.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","fragrant flowers"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Fabales |
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Genus: | Cassia |
| Botanical Name: | Cassia grandis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in warm, sunny areas
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter; can tolerate slightly sandy or rocky soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but may produce fewer flowers.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates; ensure proper ventilation if grown indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until runoff, ensure good drainage, and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of potting soil, perlite, and compost; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Thrives in warm temperatures (65–85°F or 18–29°C); prefers frost-free conditions.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in hot weather.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Fertilize before new growth appears; avoid over-fertilizing to prevent salt buildup; flush soil occasionally to remove excess salts.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seeds; stem cuttings are more reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also use water propagation for cuttings.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Cuttings may root in 4–6 weeks; seed germination can take 2–4 weeks under ideal conditions.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity; avoid direct sunlight during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning and heading back to shape the plant and improve air circulation.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased wood.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, gloves, disinfectant for tools.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune dead/diseased wood first; make clean cuts just above a bud or branch junction.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before the growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure the new pot has drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, focusing on the root zone, until the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Ensure excess water drains away to prevent standing water.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during the growing season; reduce frequency in winter to once every 2–3 weeks, allowing soil to dry between waterings.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration by avoiding compacted soil.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis, leaf drop, stunted growth, or bud drop in response to extreme cold or heat.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can cause leaf drop, slow growth, and potential frost damage if temperatures drop below 32°F (0°C).
Solution: Protect with frost cloth or move to a sheltered location; avoid watering before cold nights to prevent freezing damage.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, and reduced flowering if humidity is also low.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase watering, and use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply at half-strength for young plants; fertilize during active growth only.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; apply a diluted liquid fertilizer monthly during the growing season; reduce or stop in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are susceptible to toxicity from Cassia grandis, especially if they ingest the seeds or pods. The toxic compounds can cause severe gastrointestinal irritation and systemic effects, which may be more pronounced in smaller animals due to their lower body weight.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Cassia grandis seeds and pods can lead to gastrointestinal upset and potential systemic toxicity due to the presence of anthraquinones and lectins. These compounds can cause severe irritation to the digestive tract and may result in more serious complications if not addressed promptly.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicCassia grandis contains toxic compounds, including anthraquinones and lectins, which can cause severe gastrointestinal distress and systemic effects upon ingestion. The seeds and pods are particularly concentrated in these compounds, leading to potential poisoning if consumed in significant quantities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Cassia grandis require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Q: How often should it be watered?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Q: Is it suitable for tropical climates?
A: Yes, it is well-suited to tropical and subtropical regions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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