Cassia javanica Seeds | Java Cassia
LATIN NAME: Cassia javanica
COMMON NAME: Java Cassia, Pink and White Shower
Plant Profile
Cassia javanica — Java Cassia — is a species with genuine garden merit. The flowers pull in pollinating insects, which quietly widens its usefulness in the garden. Together these qualities explain its long-standing appeal to gardeners.
Science & Biotechnology
Within the Cassia group, Cassia javanica is of continuing interest to researchers working on plant diversity, seed biology and the selection of improved garden forms. Its widespread use as a street and avenue tree across Southeast Asian cities has also made it a subject of urban forestry research on flowering tree species suited to tropical street planting. A long cultivation history means growers know what to expect from it.
Uses & Benefits
Java Cassia brings genuine presence to the garden and earns its keep across the growing season. It works well as a substantial shade tree in parks and larger gardens with room for its eventual spreading form. Mature plants need little attention in a well-chosen position.
Sennas and cassias are the source of sennosides, the world’s most widely used herbal laxatives, standardized in products everywhere. Use them short-term only, as tradition and modern guidance both advise.
Growing from Seed
Raising Java Cassia from seed is straightforward. Nick or lightly sand hard seed coat and soak it in warm water overnight before sowing into a loose, free-draining tropical mix. Bright light suits young tree well, and it typically establishes into a substantial, attractively spreading shade tree over a number of years. Scatter the seed evenly over a loose seed compost, cover to no more than its own depth, and keep the pot moist and bright. Shift the seedlings into small pots as soon as they can be handled, and give them bright light until planting-out time.
Our Take
Java Cassia, Pink and White Shower has real presence in the garden without demanding much in return. Careful watering early on is rewarded by toughness at maturity.
Related Reading
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