Red Shower Tree (Cassia javanica) is a spectacular tropical flowering tree prized for its cascading clusters of brilliant pink to deep rose-red blossoms that cover the canopy during the blooming season. Native to Southeast Asia, this fast-growing ornamental tree creates an unforgettable display of color and provides welcome shade in warm climates. Its graceful spreading branches, attractive green foliage, and long-lasting floral display make it a favorite for parks, large landscapes, streetscapes, and tropical gardens.
Often referred to as the Pink Shower Tree or Java Cassia, this deciduous to semi-evergreen tree attracts butterflies and other beneficial pollinators while adding exceptional beauty to residential and commercial landscapes. Red Shower Tree thrives in full sun and adapts well to a variety of well-drained soils once established. It is also moderately drought tolerant, making it a relatively low-maintenance choice for gardeners in tropical and subtropical regions.
Botanical Information
- Botanical Name: Cassia javanica
- Common Name: Red Shower Tree, Pink Shower Tree, Java Cassia
- Family: Fabaceae
- Plant Type: Deciduous to Semi-Evergreen Flowering Tree
- Life Cycle: Perennial
- Native Range: Southeast Asia
- Mature Height: 30–50 feet
- Mature Spread: 25–40 feet
- Growth Rate: Fast
- USDA Hardiness Zones: 10–11
- Sun Requirements: Full Sun
- Soil Preference: Well-drained sandy, loamy, or slightly rocky soils
- Soil pH: 6.0–7.8
- Water Needs: Moderate
- Drought Tolerance: Moderate once established
- Salt Tolerance: Low to Moderate
- Deer Resistance: Moderate
- Wildlife Value: Attracts butterflies, bees, and other pollinators
- Container Friendly: Suitable only while young
- Landscape Uses: Shade tree, specimen tree, flowering accent, parks, avenues, tropical landscapes
- Germination Rate: 70–90%
- Pre-Treatment: Scarify seed before sowing.
Growing Instructions
Scarify each seed by lightly nicking or sanding the hard seed coat, then soak in warm water for 12–24 hours to improve germination. Sow approximately ½ inch deep in a quality seed-starting mix and keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Maintain temperatures between 75–90°F for the best germination results. A humidity dome may be used to help retain moisture during germination. Once seedlings develop several sets of true leaves, gradually acclimate them to outdoor conditions before transplanting into a sunny, well-drained location.
Seed Quantities Available
- 1 oz. - Approximately 156 Seeds
- 1/4 lb. - Approximately 624 Seeds
- 1 lb. - Approximately 2,496 Seeds
Why Grow Red Shower Tree?
- Produces spectacular cascading pink to red flower clusters
- Fast-growing ornamental shade tree
- Excellent specimen for tropical and subtropical landscapes
- Attracts butterflies and beneficial pollinators
- Beautiful avenue and street tree
- Low maintenance after establishment
- Long-lived and highly ornamental throughout the growing season