Cassia marginata (Pink Shower Tree, Rainbow Tree)

Cassia marginata (Pink Shower Tree, Rainbow Tree) is a striking ornamental tree admired for its vibrant floral display. It produces abundant clusters of pink to rose-colored flowers, often with subtle white or yellow centers. These large, drooping flower bunches appear in late spring to early summer, frequently coinciding with a brief period of leaf shedding, which enhances the tree’s dramatic appearance.

This tree features pinnately compound leaves with small, oval leaflets. It typically grows between 20 to 30 feet (6–9 meters) tall and develops a wide, gracefully spreading canopy. Its growth rate ranges from moderate to fast, especially in favorable climates.

Cassia marginata is believed to originate from Southeast Asia and India, but it is now cultivated widely in tropical and subtropical regions around the world. It prefers full sun and well-drained soils, tolerating both sandy and loamy conditions. While drought-tolerant once mature, it responds well to occasional deep watering during dry periods.

The tree is a magnet for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, and it sometimes attracts birds that find shelter in its canopy. Its vibrant blossoms make it a popular choice for gardens, streetscapes, and parks, where it adds seasonal color and visual interest.

Though often mistaken for Cassia javanica (Apple Blossom Tree), Cassia marginata is distinguished by its deeper pink hues. Despite being part of the Fabaceae (legume) family, it does not fix nitrogen, unlike many of its relatives. This tree remains a favored option for landscaping due to its beauty and relatively easy care.