Scientific name: Cassia fistula

IUCN Red List threat level: Least Concern

GPS Location: 17° 42′ 59.61” N, 64° 49′ 47.97” W

Observations:

Phenological Markers – Shower of Gold Tree (Cassia fistula)

1. Leaf Behavior
This tree is deciduous, typically shedding most or all of its leaves just before flowering, often resulting in a visually dramatic, flower-covered tree with bare branches.

• Leaves are compound, with 3–8 pairs of smooth-edged, oval leaflets.
• Leaf drop occurs primarily in the late dry season (February–April), shortly before the onset of rains.

Observation Tips:

• Watch for complete or near-complete leaf drop in early spring.
• Record timing of new leaf flush, which usually follows flowering.

2. Flowering
Produces large, pendulous clusters of bright yellow flowers, each with five petals and prominent stamens.

• Flowering usually begins in late dry to early wet season, typically April–June in St. Croix.
• The display is often spectacular and nearly leafless, enhancing visibility.
• Flowers are lightly fragrant and attract bees and butterflies.

Observation Tips:

• Document first bloom, peak flowering, and decline.
• Capture the “golden shower” effect during full bloom.
• Note pollinator activity, especially during warm, sunny days.

3. Fruiting
Fruits are long, cylindrical pods (up to 2 feet), dark brown to black when mature, and filled with flattened seeds in sticky pulp compartments.

• Pods develop after flowering and hang conspicuously from branches.
• Fruiting season usually spans June–September, with pods persisting into fall.

Observation Tips:

• Track pod formation, color change, and persistence.
• Note seed drop and wildlife interaction, particularly birds or monkeys in other tropical regions (less likely in St. Croix).

4. Growth Habit
Cassia fistula forms a medium-sized tree with an open, spreading crown.

• It is often used in ornamental settings for its showy seasonal flowers and fast growth.

5. Seasonal Pattern (St. Croix)

• Jan–Mar: Leaf drop
• Apr–Jun: Spectacular flowering, often with bare branches
• Jun–Sep: Pod development and seed formation
• Oct–Dec: New leaf flush and canopy regrowth