Coral shower, Horse Cassia

Cassia grandis

Physical Characteristics

Cassia grandis is a deciduous Tree growing to 25 m (82ft) by 25 m (82ft) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 10. The flowers are pollinated by Insects. It is noted for attracting wildlife. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

S. America - Brazil, Bolivia and Peru, north to the Caribbean and through Central America to Mexico.

Habitats

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Edible Uses: The pulp surrounding the seeds in the pods is edible. Sugary, but malodorous and has purgative properties if eaten in quantity[301 , 331 ].

Medicinal Uses

The bitter fruit pulp is used as a laxative and purgative similar to C. fistula and reported to be more powerful[303 , 348 , 739 ]. Drunk with milk, it is said to fight anaemia and add iron to the blood[510 ]. The ripe pods and seeds are also used as a laxative[303 ]. A decoction of the leaves is used as a laxative and in the treatment of lumbago[303 ]. The fresh juice of the leaves is used externally in the treatment of ringworm[303 ]. An ointment made from lard and the crushed leaves is employed commonly in treating cutaneous diseases, especially mange and other skin affections in dogs[331 ].

Known Hazards

None known