Siamese cassia - Senna siamea (Taxonomy, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Siamese cassia

Also known as: Ironwood cassia, Siamese senna, Cassod tree

Senna siamea (Burmese: မယ်ဇလီ, mezali; Thai: ขี้เหล็ก, khilek), also known as Siamese cassia, kassod tree, cassod tree and cassia tree, is a legume in the subfamily Caesalpinioideae. It is native to South and Southeast Asia, although its exact origin is unknown. It is a medium-size, evergreen tree growing up to 18 m with yellow flowers. It is often used as shade tree in cocoa, coffee and tea plantations. In Thailand it is the provincial tree of Chaiyaphum Province and some places in the country are named after it. Leaves are alternate, pinnately compound, with slender, green-reddish, tinged axis and 6 to 12 pairs of leaflets on short stalks, rounded at both ends.

Scientific classification

Species

Siamese cassia (Senna siamea)

Legumes, milkworts and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Tree

Plant Type

Mid spring, Late spring, Summer

Bloom Time

18 m

Plant Height

4.5 m to 6 m

Spread

Evergreen

Leaf type

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Siamese cassia

Distribution of Siamese cassia

Distribution Map

Siamese cassia is a plant native to Southeast Asia, occurring naturally in regions such as Indochina and the Malay Peninsula. It has been introduced to various tropical and subtropical areas across continents, including Africa, Central America, South America, and the Pacific Islands. While siamese cassia is cultivated in some regions, its presence in non-native ecosystems is sometimes thought to be a concern, as it may have an impact on local biodiversity and ecosystems, particularly in places like Mexico and Fiji.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

forests

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Care Guide for Siamese cassia

Every 2-3 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Originating from the tropics, siamese cassia prefers consistent moisture and high humidity. It showcases moderate drought tolerance and requires watering every 2-3 weeks, allowing soil to partially dry. In warm climates, rainfall patterns significantly influence its growth, necessitating increased irrigation during dry spells.

Fertilize: Fertilize siamese cassia with slow-release balanced nutrients, applying quarterly during each growing season. Minimize amounts to prevent over-fertilization, adjusting during rainy or growth periods. Reduce frequency in dormancy. Always use protective gear and monitor siamese cassia's response to optimize care.

Pruning: Siamese cassia thrives with early to late spring pruning, removing dead branches to enhance growth and air circulation. Trimming overgrown areas maintains size and shape, aligning with its growth cycle to reduce stress, promote vigorous flowering, and improve overall aesthetics.

Propagation: Siamese cassia can be effectively propagated through sowing, emphasizing fresh, viable seeds for better germination. Direct sowing in well-draining soil with regular moisture monitoring promotes growth. Post-germination, maintaining vigilance against pests and diseases is essential for a healthy start.

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Images of Siamese cassia

Distribution of Siamese cassia

Care Guide for Siamese cassia

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