Family: Fabaceae
Scientific name: Cassia grandis
Common name: Pink shower tree
Origin: Central America

The clusters of pink flowers are a striking sight in the rainforest of Central America. The flowers are pollinated by bees and are followed by dark pods that can grow up to 50 cm long. In those pods, the seeds are surrounded by a sticky pulp that is edible and also has medicinal uses. Once a year, the tree may drop its feathered leaves to make room for flowering and to prevent evaporation during a drier period. 

The Pink shower tree is a tropical tree that can grow up to 30 meters tall in a tropical climate. In our country, however, the species can be kept as a tub or houseplant, limiting its size. If necessary, the plant can also be well pruned. Make sure the plant is placed in a sunny spot and water it as soon as the soil is dry. 

Sowing description: Sow seeds in 1 spot with sandpaper, until a difference in color is visible. Then soak for 24 hours in water and sow in seed and cutting soil. Keep soil constantly slightly moist and let germinate at 22-28 deg C. Germination usually within a few weeks, but can take longer. 

Sowing period: Whole year
Difficulty: Intermediate
Minimum temperature: 8 degrees Celsius