Wishing Tree, scientifically known as Cassia bakeriana, is a tropical flowering shrub native to the forested regions of Thailand and Myanmar that has captured the hearts of gardeners worldwide. This small tree typically reaches 20 to 30 feet in height and width, creating a substantial presence in warm landscapes. In late winter and early spring, it produces a stunning cascade of fragrant pink-purple flowers with bright yellow stamens arranged in graceful, drooping clusters that can stretch 4 to 10 inches long. Hardy in zones 10 to 11, it thrives in full sun with moderate water and minimal maintenance once established, rewarding patient gardeners with one of spring's most memorable floral displays.
Full Sun
Moderate
10-11
360in H x 360in W
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Moderate
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From March through April, Wishing Tree explodes with hundreds of delicate pink-purple flowers held in dramatic drooping chains, each bloom sweetly fragrant and centered with golden stamens. The tree grows to a substantial 20 to 30 feet tall and wide, commanding attention in tropical and subtropical gardens. Once established, it becomes remarkably self-sufficient, tolerating drought and requiring little ongoing care beyond initial establishment and protection from harsh winds.
Wishing Tree serves primarily as a flowering shade tree and ornamental specimen in tropical and subtropical landscapes, prized for its dramatic seasonal bloom display and ability to frame views with its graceful branching structure.
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Transplant rooted cuttings or seedlings outdoors after all frost danger has passed and soil has warmed. Space trees 20 to 30 feet apart to allow room for mature spread. Handle young trees gently and shelter them from strong winds during establishment.
Seeds can be sown directly into prepared soil after frost danger has passed, though cuttings establish more reliably.
Prune lightly after flowering concludes in late spring to maintain shape and remove any dead or crossing branches. Avoid heavy pruning, as Wishing Tree flowers on wood from the previous season, and excessive cutting will reduce next year's bloom.
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“Cassia bakeriana originates from the tropical forests of Thailand and Myanmar, where it evolved as part of the native understory vegetation. It has since traveled the world as an ornamental treasure, now cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions globally for its extraordinary spring flower show. The species name honors one of the plant explorers or botanists who encountered it in Southeast Asia, though the exact history of its introduction to Western horticulture remains largely undocumented in conventional sources.”