Cassia javanica, Javanica - 0.5 kg Seeds

Java Cassia or Pink Shower (Cassia javanica), also called the Apple Blossom tree, is a medium-to-large deciduous tree that puts on a spectacular display of soft pink to rose flowers, fading to white, that smother the branches in early summer. Its spreading crown and feathery pinnate leaves, followed by long cylindrical pods, make it one of the finest flowering avenue trees for warm climates.

Native to Southeast Asia and Indonesia, it is widely planted across the Indian plains in parks, campuses and along roads, growing best in deep, well-drained soils with good sunlight. It is valued almost entirely as an ornamental and landscape tree for its breathtaking flowering and shade.

• Family: Fabaceae (Caesalpinioideae)
• Native region: Southeast Asia and Indonesia
• Mature height: 10-20 m
• Growth rate: Moderate to fast

The hard-coated seeds come from long woody pods and germinate better after scarification or a hot-water soak followed by 24 hours in water. Sow about 1-2 cm deep in bags or trays of well-drained mix in summer or with the monsoon; germination usually takes 2-3 weeks. Grow the seedlings on in bags and transplant them out during the rains.