The Golden Shower Tree, scientifically known as Cassia fistula, is a medium- sized deciduous tree native to South Asia and Southeast Asia. It typically grows 10 to 20 meters tall and is admired for its stunning display of bright golden-yellow flowers that hang in long cascading clusters, often covering the entire tree during summer. The tree has pinnate, glossy green leaves, and after flowering, it produces long, dark brown cylindrical seed pods. It thrives in full sun and well-drained soils, is drought-tolerant once established, and is widely used as an ornamental tree in gardens, parks, and streetscapes. The Golden Shower Tree is culturally significant in many regions, symbolizing prosperity and good fortune. It is the national tree of Thailand and the state flower of Kerala and Delhi in India. It blooms profusely even in adverse conditions like high heat and dry atmosphere. The flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, making it ecologically beneficial. The tree has durable wood and produces seeds that are toxic if ingested. It is popularly planted as a specimen or street tree and requires occasional pruning to maintain its shape. The tree can tolerate coastal conditions and different soil types but prefers well-drained soil. It blooms in late spring to mid-summer, showing long clusters of fragrant yellow flowers that can be up to a foot long. The Golden Shower Tree is also used in traditional medicine and cultural festivals in various Asian communities.
