Cassia is a genus of flowering plants in the legume family, Fabaceae, and the subfamily Caesalpinioideae. Species are known commonly as cassias. Species of the genera Senna and Chamaecrista were previously included in Cassia. Cassia are usually mid-sized to tall trees. There are hundreds of Cassia species, but it is unclear just how many. One estimate stands at 692. The genus was a wastebasket taxon for a long time, used to classify plants that did not fit well anywhere else. Over 1000 species have belonged to Cassia over the years. Many taxa have since been transferred to more appropriate genera, such as Senna.

This gorgeous tropical tree, with its graceful foliage and long clusters of bright yellow and sweetly scented flowers, is considered by many tropical gardeners to be the most beautiful of Cassia varieties. It also known by several other names – Yellow Shower, Indian Laburnum, Gold Rush Tree and even Pudding Pipe Tree. A native to south Asia, it is the national flower of Thailand and its yellow leaves symbolize Thai royalty. Growing to only 9-12 meters high at maturity, it is considered a small tropical and only hardy outside in the frost free zones, however it is a very easy tropical to grow for indoor use and truly is an exotic houseplant to own.