This one can be shrubby or grow into a small tree, depending on how you prune it. The bright yellow flowers appear in clusters at the ends of the branches in mid-autumn and continue until frost. In frost-free areas they may continue to bloom throughout the winter. It is fast-growing to
a height of 8 to 12 feet. Growth tends to be long and unbranched, leading to breakage when the twigs bend over from the weight of the flowers. Sulphur butterflies utilize this plant both for nectar and as a larval food source. In Florida this species is a caterpillar host for five of the nine
native species of Sulphurs. The caterpillars that feed on the leaves will be mostly green, but those that feed on the flower buds will be yellow. Cassia bicapsularis is recommended for USDA Zones 9-11. It can be evergreen or deciduous, depending on which end of its range you are located. In Zone 8 it can be grown as a perennial, freezing to the ground in winter but returning each spring.  It is native to Central and South America, but can be found around the world in tropical areas. Plant in full sun for best flowering.

 

 

 

Plant in spring or early fall to give plants the best start. Choose a location that will allow roots to spread and branches to grow freely. Space plants far enough from building foundations, walls, and decks so that the growing foliage won’t crowd the structure. Consider whether tall trees or shrubs will block windows or interfere with the roof or power lines.  To prepare the planting area, dig a hole as deep as the root ball and three times as wide. After removing the soil, mix it with some Espoma Bio-Tone & Michigan Peat. This enriches the soil and loosens the existing dirt so that new roots can spread easily. To remove the plant from the container, gently brace the base of the plant, tip it sideways and tap the outside of the pot to loosen. Rotate the container and continue to tap, loosening the soil until the plant pulls smoothly from the pot. The container can also be removed by carefully cutting it down the side.

 

Set the plant in the hole.  If roots are tightly packed gently rake them apart with your  fingers. Return the soil to the planting area, packing it firmly around the root ball. Fill the hole until the soil line is just at the base of the plant, where the roots begin to flare out from the main stem. Water the plant well then add a 2” (5cm) layer of mulch, such as pine bark nuggets, around the planting area. Keep the mulch at least 4” (10cm) away from  the trunk of the plant as this can keep the bark too moist and cause it to decay.

 

Depending on rainfall, new plants need to be watered 3 times a week through the first growing season. A slow, one-hour trickle of water should do the job. Deep watering encourages roots to grow further into the ground resulting in a sturdier plant with more drought tolerance. To check for soil moisture use your finger or a hand trowel to dig a small hole and examine the soil. If the first 2-4” (5-10cm) of soil is dry, it is time to water. Monitor new plants through the first two years to make sure they are getting the moisture they need. After that they should be sturdy enough to survive on their own.

 

 

Established trees should be fertilized every Spring. Feed in early spring when plants start growing. Fertilizers are available in many forms, but as always, plant with Espoma Bio-Tone. You’ll need to fertilize with Espoma Plant-Tone three times a year; March – May – August. Always follow the fertilizer package directions for application rates. Over-fertilizing plants or applying at the wrong time during the growing season can result in plant injury.

 

Pruning may be needed to remove dead branches, encourage bushier growth, promote more flowers, or maintain a specific size or shape. Dead branches should be removed close to the trunk, flush with the bark. When pruning to control a plant’s size or shape, cuts should be made just above a leaf bud and at a slight angle. This bud will be where the new growth sprouts. Many shrubs can be regularly sheared to keep them shaped as a hedge, edging or formal foundation planting. Always use sharp, clean tools when pruning. There are many tools available depending on the job. Hand shears, pruners and loppers are ideal for most shrubs. Pole pruners and tree saws are better for large, mature shrubs or trees. If a tree is so large that it can’t be safely pruned with a pole pruner, it is best to call in a professional tree service.