Cassia surattensis Seeds | Scrambled Egg Tree, Landscape Form

Categories：Flower

Scrambled Egg Tree seeds (Cassia surattensis)

LATIN NAME: Cassia surattensis

COMMON NAME: Scrambled Egg Tree, Landscape Form

Plant Profile

Scrambled Egg Tree (Cassia surattensis) is a small, spreading evergreen tree of the pea family (Fabaceae), native to Southeast Asia and Malesia. It reaches 6-10 m, with pinnate leaves and generous clusters of bright yellow flowers that cover the crown in repeated flushes, followed by slender pods. Common in tropical streets and gardens, it flowers so freely that fallen petals carpet the ground beneath.

Science & Biotechnology

Within the Cassia group, Cassia surattensis is of continuing interest to researchers working on plant diversity, seed biology and the selection of improved garden forms. Its reliable, extended flowering season also continues to make it a useful reference species in tropical pollinator garden research. Its behaviour in gardens is well recorded, thanks to a long history in cultivation.

Uses & Benefits

Scrambled Egg Tree works well in borders, containers and dedicated beds. Beyond general ornamental use, discussed on our other Cassia surattensis listing, this species’ fast, dense growth makes it a practical choice for informal screening, quick-establishing hedges and landscape fill in warm, frost-free regions where rapid results are wanted. Its tolerance of regular pruning also suits it to more formally maintained landscape applications. In later seasons it demands little more than an appreciative eye.

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

Seed is the natural starting point for Scrambled Egg Tree, and the process is uncomplicated. 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 this fast-growing species well, and it typically establishes and fills in quickly, well suited to screening and landscape-fill applications. Level a tray of loose seed compost, sow evenly, cover to about the seed’s own depth, and keep it moist in full light. Grow the youngsters on steadily in pots until well rooted, then move them to their final positions.

Our Take

Once established, Scrambled Egg Tree, Landscape Form largely looks after itself. Beginners will find it patient of imperfect technique.

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