Desert Cassia 25G

Desert Cassia – Senna polyphylla (25 Gallon Pot) available in Jupiter, FL.

Bring sunshine to your landscape year-round with the Desert Cassia Tree (Senna polyphylla), a compact, semi-evergreen tree celebrated for its bright yellow blooms and exceptional drought tolerance. This 25-gallon specimen is mature enough to make an immediate impact—whether used as a flowering accent, low-maintenance street tree, or pollinator magnet in your South Florida garden.

A member of the Fabaceae family and the Magnoliopsida (dicot) class, Desert Cassia is native to the Caribbean and naturally suited for Florida’s hot, dry winters and sandy soils. It’s one of the best choices for sustainable and water-wise landscaping, offering months of golden color and lush fine-textured foliage that complements both tropical and coastal design styles.

This small ornamental tree also attracts butterflies and bees, making it a vital addition to eco-friendly and native-inspired gardens.

Key Features:

• Botanical Name: Senna polyphylla

• Common Name: Desert Cassia

• Family: Fabaceae (Legume family)

• Class: Magnoliopsida

• Pot Size: 25 Gallon

• Mature Height: 8–12 feet

• Spread: 6–10 feet

• USDA Zones: 9–11 (perfect for South Florida)

• Foliage: Fine-textured, semi-evergreen, gray-green leaves

• Flowers: Bright yellow clusters

• Bloom Time: Fall through early spring

• Growth Rate: Moderate

• Drought Tolerant: Yes

• Wildlife Value: Attracts butterflies, bees, and pollinators

Sunlight Needs:

Thrives in full sun. For best flowering performance and compact growth, plant in a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.

Watering Requirements:

Low water needs. Water regularly during the establishment period (first 6–12 months). Once mature, Desert Cassia becomes highly drought-tolerant, thriving with minimal irrigation. Avoid overwatering or planting in areas that remain wet for long periods.

Soil Preferences:

Prefers well-drained sandy or rocky soils typical of South Florida’s natural environment. Tolerates alkaline conditions and poor soil fertility, though it benefits from organic mulch to retain moisture and enrich soil biology.

Fertilization:

Feed lightly once or twice a year using a slow-release, balanced fertilizer. Over-fertilization is unnecessary and may reduce flowering. For a natural approach, apply compost or organic mulch around the base.

Pest & Disease Tips:

Desert Cassia is exceptionally pest- and disease-resistant. Its tough, leathery leaves and drought-hardy nature make it a reliable, low-maintenance performer in both inland and coastal areas.

Maintenance & Pruning:

Minimal maintenance required. Prune lightly after flowering to shape or control size, encouraging dense, bushy growth. Avoid heavy pruning during active bloom cycles.

Why It Works in South Florida:

• Perfectly suited for heat, humidity, and sandy soils

• Thrives with very little water or maintenance once established

• Long bloom period brightens landscapes through the dry season

• Attracts butterflies and pollinators

• Excellent choice for xeriscaping, coastal plantings, and eco-friendly gardens

Jupiter Farms & Nursery