GOLD MEDALLION TREE
Cassia leptophylla
FAMILY Fabaceae
SYNONYMS
ADDITIONAL COMMON NAMES
GOLDEN SHOWER TREE
BRAZIL PINK SHOWER TREE
See: all Cassia
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by C. Stubler, J. Reimer, M. Ritter
GENERAL INFO
This tree is known for its cascading clusters of bright yellow flowers that create a striking visual display during the summer months. Its delicate, fern-like leaves provide a soft, airy texture, making it a popular choice for urban landscapes. The tree's moderate size and graceful, spreading canopy offer ample shade without overwhelming smaller spaces. It thrives in sunny locations and is relatively drought-tolerant once established. This tree's vibrant blooms and attractive foliage make it a favorite for adding a touch of elegance and color to streets and parks.
Native range: BrazilHorticultural use: ScreenSchoolyard Use: This tree has delicate, feathery leaves that offer a chance to explore leaf structure and light filtration. Its bright yellow flowers can be used to discuss pollination and the role of color in attracting pollinators. The tree produces long, slender seed pods that demonstrate seed dispersal mechanisms. Its semi-deciduous nature provides an opportunity to study seasonal changes and how trees adapt to different climates.
Native range: BrazilHorticultural use: ScreenSchoolyard Use: This tree has delicate, feathery leaves that offer a chance to explore leaf structure and light filtration. Its bright yellow flowers can be used to discuss pollination and the role of color in attracting pollinators. The tree produces long, slender seed pods that demonstrate seed dispersal mechanisms. Its semi-deciduous nature provides an opportunity to study seasonal changes and how trees adapt to different climates.
TREE CHARACTERISTICS
Tree Shape: RoundedFoliage Type: Partly DeciduousMaximum Tree Height: 25 feetCanopy Width: 30 feetGrowth Rate: ~36 in/yearLeaf Arrangement and Leaf Form: Alternate, Pinnately CompoundLeaf Shape: Spear-shapedLeaf color: GreenFlowers: ShowyFlower Color: YellowFlower Time: SummerFruit: Very Large Brown LegumeFruiting time: FallLitter Type: Dry Fruit
SITE CONDITIONS
Recommended Planting Area: 4' to 7'Schoolyard Trees: YesWater Use Rating: MediumSunset Climate Zone: 15 - 16, 20 - 24Shade Tolerance: NoUSDA Hardiness Zone: 10, 11, 12Soil Texture: Loam or SandSoil pH: Neutral to Slightly AlkalineSalt Tolerance: High
CONSIDERATIONS
Branch Strength: Medium WeakRoot Damage Potential: LowPotential health issues: PoisonousUtility Friendly: YesWCISA Appraisal: Suggested LCANT 24" box, Group —, Approx. cross sectional area —
External Resources
CITE THIS TREE
"SelecTree. UFEI. "Cassia leptophylla Tree Record." 1995-2025. Cal
Poly State University, San Luis Obispo. Accessed on Apr 28, 2025."
< https://selectree.calpoly.edu/tree-detail/266 >
< https://selectree.calpoly.edu/tree-detail/266 >
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