Cassia renigera, commonly known as Burmese Pink Cassia, is a small to medium-sized deciduous tree native to Myanmar, characterized by spectacular clusters of bright pink flowers that cover the tree almost entirely during spring and early summer. The species exhibits physical seed dormancy due to its hard, water-impermeable seed coat, requiring mechanical scarification and warm water soaking prior to sowing for reliable germination.
Before sowing
Physical dormancy caused by water-impermeable seed coat. Seeds have a hard outer coating that prevents water uptake. Most seeds swell when soaked and should be sown immediately after swelling.
Sowing
What to expect
Tips
For best germination success: (1) Scarify seeds mechanically using sandpaper, chisel, or nail clippers on the side away from the hilum; (2) Soak scarified seeds in warm water at room temperature for 24 hours, replacing water daily; (3) Sow seeds immediately after swelling occurs; (4) Maintain temperature between 18-22°C; (5) Keep substrate consistently moist but not waterlogged; (6) Germination typically occurs within 2-4 weeks; (7) Seeds are frost-sensitive, treat as tropical; (8) Sow seeds 5-10mm deep in well-draining soil; (9) Provide bright light after emergence; (10) Use individual pots to reduce transplant shock.
Sources: Australian Seed, Rare Palm Seeds, Nurserylive, Scientific Reports (Ferreria et al. 2020)
