Contents
Main characteristics
The cassia plant belongs to the legume family and its scientific name is cassia corymbosa. It is an evergreen tree native to the tropical belt of the American continent and resembles a fairly vigorous shrub with an upright habit. The largest specimens can reach a width of two and a half meters. It begins to bloom at the end of summer, but continues to decorate the garden until the first cold winters. It has inflorescences grouped in clusters of a very intense yellow which emerge at the apex of the stems. It prefers to be planted in sunny areas and grows mainly in regions with a temperate climate. It can also withstand freezing temperatures, but only for a very short time.
medical properties
The cassia plant, after flowering, produces fleshy pods. Its pulp has the characteristic of being strongly laxative. This peculiarity has been known for centuries and currently the active ingredients extracted from it are the basis of many medicines and herbal products intended to solve important problems directly attributable to constipation. However, taking cassia must be done strictly following medical indications because otherwise there is a risk of unpleasant side effects such as diarrhea and severe abdominal pain. The active ingredients present in this plant can interact with cardiac drugs such as anti-arrhythmics or digitalis derivatives. Ask your doctor for advice before taking any medicine.
Reading methods
The cassia plant it can be easily reproduced by the seeding technique. Seeds should be placed in nurseries at the end of March using fertile soil as is generally used for acid-loving plants. Cover the seeds with a handful of potting soil and water thoroughly. If you’re concerned about dangerous water accumulation, mix medium-grit sand or pumice stone with the soil. After a few weeks, transplant the seedlings and plant them finally in the chosen place. Make sure they get plenty of sunlight and if the winter temperature stays too much below 0°C, protect them with fleece and cover the area adjacent to the stems with dry leaves.
The cassia plant does not need special attention during its life. In our latitudes, it has no pests that can harm it or create significant problems. To avoid root rot problems, the soil should be well drained. Shrub species can be pruned in full vegetative recovery between March and April. The branches are shortened by at least one third of their total length. If you want the bushes to be more compact, it is better to cut all the branches at a height of forty centimeters from the ground. The plant will regain new vigor. As for irrigation, in summer you should water the plants once a day, preferably one hour after sunset.