Plant Bio

Cassia surattensis, commonly known as the Scrambled Egg Tree or Glaucous Cassia, is a beautiful flowering tree known for its bright yellow blossoms. Here is a detailed description and care guide for Cassia surattensis:

Description:

Foliage: Cassia surattensis has compound leaves that are pinnate, with several pairs of small, oval leaflets. The leaves are a rich green color and have a smooth, glossy texture.
Flowers: The tree is noted for its vibrant yellow, five-petaled flowers that resemble scrambled eggs, hence the common name. These flowers appear in clusters and can cover the tree, providing a spectacular display, usually in the late summer and fall.
Size: This tree typically grows to a height of 10 to 20 feet (3 to 6 meters) and has a similar spread. Its size makes it suitable for small to medium-sized gardens.
Fruit: After flowering, Cassia surattensis produces long, flat seed pods that are green when young and turn brown as they mature.
Form: It has an open, spreading canopy and can be pruned to a tree or shrub form, depending on the landscape requirement.

Care Tips:

Sunlight:

Cassia surattensis thrives in full sun. It requires at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day to flower profusely and maintain healthy growth.
It can tolerate partial shade but with reduced flowering.

Temperature:

This tree prefers warm climates and is best suited for USDA hardiness zones 9-11. It is sensitive to frost and should be protected from cold temperatures below 40°F (4°C).

Watering:

Water young trees regularly to establish a strong root system. Once established, Cassia surattensis is relatively drought-tolerant but will perform best with regular watering during dry periods.
Ensure the soil is well-drained to prevent waterlogging and root rot.

Soil:

Plant Cassia surattensis in well-draining soil. It can tolerate a variety of soil types, including sandy, loamy, or slightly clay soils, but prefers a slightly acidic to neutral pH.
Amending the soil with organic matter can improve soil fertility and drainage.

Fertilization:

Feed the tree with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring and mid-summer to encourage growth and flowering. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application rates.
Over-fertilization can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers.

Pruning:

Prune Cassia surattensis lightly after flowering to maintain its shape and size. Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches as needed.
Light pruning can also encourage a bushier growth habit and more prolific flowering in the following season.

Mulching:

Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base of the tree to conserve moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds. Keep the mulch a few inches away from the trunk to prevent rot.

Pest and Disease Control:

Cassia surattensis is relatively pest-resistant but can occasionally be affected by caterpillars, aphids, or scale insects. Inspect the tree regularly and treat infestations with appropriate insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal diseases.

Propagation:

Propagate Cassia surattensis from seeds or cuttings. Seeds should be scarified or soaked in warm water for 24 hours before planting to improve germination rates.
Semi-hardwood cuttings can be taken in late summer and rooted in a well-draining potting mix.

By following these care tips, Cassia surattensis can thrive and add a splash of vibrant yellow to your garden, providing visual interest and attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies.