Cassia javanica L.
Vernacular name: Pink shower tree, Apple blossom cassia (Hindi: जंगल जलनेती)
Species Name: Cassia javanica L.
Family: Fabaceae (Caesalpinioideae)
Habit: Deciduous medium tree
Stem: Straight trunk 10-20 m, drooping branches, light grey bark.
Leaf: Paripinnate compound 30-40 cm, 6-12 pairs elliptic leaflets 2-5×1.5-3 cm.
Flowering: Late spring-summer
Flowers: Bracteate terminal racemes 10-20 cm; 5 pink/white petals (obovate, 1.5-3 cm), 10 stamens (anthers yellow – 3 long, 4 short fertile, 3 staminodes), superior ovary (linear).
Fruit: Long cylindrical pods 30-60×2-3 cm, dark brown, many seeds.
Uses:
- Bark has astringent and pods have laxative property.
- Its bark extracts is used to manage diabetes mellitus.
- Plant has antimicrobial and antipyretic properties.
- Its an Ornamental and shade tree widely planted along side road or in parks.
- It is known as Thai “apple blossom” tree.
- Flowers are used in ceremonial garlands, so also known as Indonesian bridal crown plant.
- Plant yields timber that is used in construction and heavy furniture like cabinets though wood needs anti-termite treatment.
- Plant is also used in leather processing as its bark has tannins.
- Plant is a natural nitrogen fixer.
