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Cassia leptophylla

Scientific Name: Cassia leptophylla

Family: Fabaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth:

Duration:

Other Names:

       

Gold Medallion Tree (Cassia leptophylla)

The Gold Medallion Tree, scientifically known as Cassia leptophylla, is a stunning tree known for its profuse golden blooms. This "Cinderella story" of a tree is becoming increasingly popular, especially in California.

Considerations for Pets

  • The text mentions that the seed of Cassia leptophylla is poisonous.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Cassia leptophylla Vogel
  • Common Name: Gold Medallion Tree, Golden Medallion Tree
  • Family: Fabaceae (Pea Family), Subfamily Caesalpinioideae
  • Synonyms: Leguminosae Cassia leptophylla Vogel &middot Syn. Gen. Cassiae 13. 1837. 13. 1837. Original Data: Notes: Bras.
  • The species name leptophylla is derived from the Greek words "lepto" meaning "fine or slender" and phylla meaning leaves.

Distribution and Habitat

  • Native to Brazil, particularly southeastern and southern Brazil.
  • It thrives in subtropical and warm climates.
  • It is now commonly found in locations such as San Luis Obispo, Balboa Park in San Diego, Santa Cruz, Foster Botanical Garden in Honolulu, and City College in San Diego.

Ecological Role

  • Recommended for planting by the California Invasive Plant Council, grows quickly to its mature height.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

  • Semi-evergreen tree, sometimes described as nearly evergreen.
  • Medium size, typically growing to 20-25 feet tall, sometimes 10-20 ft or up to 30 feet, with a spread as wide.
  • Fast-growing.
  • Shapely and graceful, with an open-headed, low-spreading, bushy crown and slightly pendent branch tips.
  • Reddish-brown bark with low branches.
  • Known for its melon-sized clusters of orchid-like yellow flowers that bloom from summer through fall.
  • Dense, globose crown with a short, usually crooked bole that can be 30-40 cm wide.

Interactions with Other Organisms

  • The text mentions a study about antinociceptive activity of (-)-spectaline isolated from Cassia leptophylla.

Further Information

  • Village Nurseries Landscape Center in Orange often receives inquiries about this tree.
  • Discover Life offers information about the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of this species.
  • Wikimedia Commons hosts images of Cassia leptophylla.