Wishing tree (Cassia bakeriana)
The Wishing tree (Cassia bakeriana) is a lovely, low-maintenance broadleaf evergreen known for its showy, fragrant pink-purple spring blooms.
Complete Plant Information
Overview
The Cassia bakeriana, widely cherished as the Wishing tree, brings spectacular color to tropical and subtropical landscapes. This small flowering tree is celebrated for its dramatic display of fragrant pink-purple flowers that emerge early in the spring, making it a standout ornamental specimen. Its relatively contained size allows it to fit beautifully into smaller garden settings where larger shade trees might overwhelm the space.
Native to the forested areas of Thailand and Myanmar, Cassia bakeriana performs best when provided full sun and medium moisture. As a broadleaf evergreen, it maintains good structure, though it may become semi-evergreen in cooler winter periods just before new growth appears. Gardeners appreciate the Wishing tree for its low maintenance requirements once established, offering tropical beauty without excessive care demands.
With a mature spread mirroring its height, this tree creates an elegant, rounded canopy perfect for softening harsh lines in the landscape. The showy, delicate blossoms provide significant visual interest during the early growing season, solidifying the Cassia bakeriana as a premier choice for sunny ornamental plantings.
Fast Facts
- Plant Family: Fabaceae
- Plant Type: Broadleaf evergreen
- Native Range: Southeastern Asia
- Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 10-11
- Size at Maturity:
- Height: 20-30 ft
- Spread: 20-30 ft
- Bloom Time: March to April
- Bloom Description: Pink-purple
- Sun Exposure: Full sun
- Water Needs: Medium
- Maintenance Level: Low
How to Grow
Optimal planting for Cassia bakeriana occurs during the warm season, allowing it time to establish its roots before cooler temperatures arrive. Select a site receiving full sun, which ensures the most prolific flowering. This tree thrives in average, medium-moisture soils, provided they are well-drained. Avoid low spots where water collects, as poor drainage can quickly cause issues even though established trees develop some drought tolerance.
Watering should be consistent while young, maintaining medium soil moisture levels. Once mature, the Wishing tree displays improved drought hardiness, requiring supplemental water mainly during extended dry periods. Fertilization is generally not necessary in rich tropical soils, but a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring can encourage robust blooming.
Pruning for Cassia bakeriana is minimal, focusing primarily on removing any dead or crossing branches immediately after flowering. Protecting the tree from frost is critical, as it is intolerant of freezing conditions. Site your tree in locations shielded from harsh, drying winds to enhance its health and appearance. Propagation is often successful via seed or cuttings.
Landscape Uses
The Wishing tree functions excellently as a specimen accent piece due to its vibrant spring color display and symmetrical, rounded habit. Planting it in a clear, sunny area ensures maximum visual impact when the pink-purple blooms appear. It is highly recommended as an ornamental flowering tree suitable for sunny areas of the landscape where a medium-sized canopy is desired.
For homeowners with smaller properties, the Cassia bakeriana is perfectly sized for planting near patios or walkways where the beautiful fragrance of the flowers can be easily enjoyed. It can also be successfully grown in large containers, especially when utilized on sunny decks or terraces, provided its eventual 30-foot dimensions are respected with appropriately sized containerization.
Its semi-evergreen nature means it provides light screening during the cooler months before producing its spectacular bloom flush. Consider companion planting with deep green, low-growing shrubs that contrast nicely with the delicate pink flowers of the Wishing tree.
Standout Features
Flower Qualities
- Showy
- Fragrant
Noteworthy Characteristics
Cassia bakeriana, commonly called pink shower tree, is a small flowering tree that typically matures to 20-30’ tall and as wide. It is noted for producing a showy display of fragrant pink-purple flowers with yellow stamens which bloom in early spring (March-April) in 4-10” long drooping racemes (20-40 flowers per raceme). This tree is semi-evergreen because the leaves eventually drop in winter prior to the commencement of new growth in late winter to early spring.
Tolerances
- Intolerant of frost
Potential Problems
The Cassia bakeriana generally offers good resistance, presenting no serious insect or disease problems under ideal conditions. However, in periods of high humidity or poor air circulation, growers may observe mildew or leaf spot. Management typically involves ensuring adequate spacing between trees to promote air movement and applying appropriate fungicides at the first sign of fungal activity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What hardiness zones is Wishing tree suitable for?
The Wishing tree is best suited for tropical and subtropical regions defined as USDA Hardiness Zones 10 through 11.
How large does Cassia bakeriana grow?
This species typically reaches a mature height between 20 and 30 feet, with a similar spread of 20 to 30 feet, creating a balanced, nearly spherical canopy.
When does Cassia bakeriana bloom?
The primary bloom time for the Cassia bakeriana is from March to April, offering a beautiful display of pink-purple flowers early in the spring season.
What sun exposure does Cassia bakeriana need?
For optimal health and the best flower production, the Wishing tree requires a location that receives full sun throughout the day.
Conclusion
The Cassia bakeriana, or Wishing tree, is an exceptional choice for tropical gardeners seeking low-maintenance beauty and spectacular spring color. Its fragrant, showy flowers make it a valuable addition to any sunny area of the landscape. Before planting, confirm you are in USDA Zones 10 or 11 and select a site away from potential frost exposure.
Propagation Tips
Propagating the Cassia bakeriana can be achieved through two primary methods: cuttings or seed. Growing from seed requires patience, and nursery stock is often preferred for immediate landscape impact. If taking cuttings, harvest semi-hardwood stems during the growing season and treat them with rooting hormone to encourage faster root development.
Success with cuttings depends heavily on maintaining high humidity and consistent warmth, mimicking the tree’s native tropical environment. Seed collection involves harvesting the long, bean-like pods that appear after flowering. Ensure the seeds are fresh before sowing or storage, as viability can decline quickly.
Companion Planting
When designing a landscape around the Wishing tree, select companion plants that share similar needs for full sun and medium water. Low-growing tropical groundcovers or medium-height shrubs with deep green foliage provide an excellent backdrop that accentuates the soft pink blooms of the Cassia bakeriana.
Plants known for tolerance to drier spells once established, similar to the mature Wishing tree, are ideal partners. Avoid placing it near aggressive, fast-growing species that might compete heavily for root space or block necessary airflow around the tree’s lower branches.
