Cassia javanica (Apple Blossom Tree, Red Shower Tree)

Cassia javanica (Apple Blossom Tree, Red Shower Tree) is a stunning tropical ornamental prized for its abundant, colorful blooms. One of its most significant features is its breathtaking floral display, which blankets the tree in soft shades of pink, white, and pale red, resembling apple blossoms—hence one of its common names. The flowers grow in large, pendulous clusters (racemes) that create a spectacular canopy of color during the blooming season.

The tree typically flowers in late spring through early summer, often before the new foliage fully emerges. This timing amplifies its visual impact, as the vibrant blossoms stand out against bare or sparsely leafed branches. The contrast between the delicate flowers and the branching structure gives the tree an elegant and ethereal appearance that is highly valued in landscape design.

Cassia javanica can grow up to 40–50 feet (12–15 meters) in height and forms a broad, rounded crown. Its leaves are pinnately compound, with many small, oval leaflets that give it a light and feathery texture. The tree has a moderate to fast growth rate in suitable climates and is often used to provide shade as well as ornamental value in public parks, large gardens, and along boulevards.

Native to Southeast Asia, including Indonesia and the Philippines, Cassia javanica thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. It is moderately drought-tolerant once established and adapts well to both tropical and subtropical climates. While it prefers regular watering during dry periods, it is relatively low-maintenance, making it a popular choice for both urban and residential landscapes.

Ecologically, the Red Shower Tree supports pollinators such as bees and butterflies, contributing to biodiversity in the areas where it is planted. It is often compared to Cassia marginata, but while marginata tends to have deeper, uniform pink flowers, Cassia javanica is noted for its multicolored floral tones that transition from pale to deeper pinks. This multi-hued display is its most distinguishing and celebrated characteristic, making it a signature specimen for adding tropical elegance and seasonal drama to landscapes.