West African Laburnum
Cassia sieberiana
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Pl. E8FB — Cassia sieberiana
Cassia sieberianaCassia sieberianaCassia sieberianaCassia sieberianaCassia sieberianaCassia sieberianaCassia sieberianaCassia sieberianaCassia sieberianaCassia sieberianaCassia sieberianaCassia sieberianaCassia sieberianaCassia sieberiana
IOverview
Overview
West African Laburnum, scientifically known as Cassia sieberiana, is an ornamental tree native to West Africa, including Ghana, Guinea, Ivory Coast, Liberia, Sierra Leone, Benin, and Burkina Faso. This plant thrives in full sun and can tolerate both dry and moist conditions, making it adaptable to various soil types such as light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay). It is known for its edible leaves and stems, which are part of the diet in some regions. Standing up to 15 meters tall, this tree stands out with its distinctive yellow pea-like flowers that create a striking display during spring.
Quick answers
What is West African Laburnum?
West African Laburnum, scientifically known as Cassia sieberiana, is an ornamental tree native to West Africa, including Ghana, Guinea, Ivory Coast, Liberia, Sierra Leone, Benin, and Burkina Faso.
What is West African Laburnum used for?
Traditionally used for digestion. Each claim is evidence-rated — see Section II for full citations.
Best for
Top 1 evidence-ranked use of West African Laburnum
Clinicaluses · safety · chemistry · dosagemedicinal profile
IIBenefits & evidence
1 claim · 0 sources
Benefits & evidence
1 claim · 0 sources- Cassia sieberiana has been traditionally used in West African herbal medicine for digestive issues, such as bloating and indigestion. A decoction of the leaves or stems is commonly prepared to support gastrointestinal health.
The mechanism by which Cassia sieberiana supports digestion is not fully characterised but may involve compounds that help regulate gut motility and reduce inflammation in the digestive tract.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
West African Laburnum thrives in full sun and prefers well-drained soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is drought-tolerant but will also grow in moist conditions. The plant is hardy in zones 10-12, making it suitable for warmer climates. For propagation, use leaves and stems. Regular watering during dry periods and ample sunlight are key to its health and growth.
Light
Full sun
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
10-12
Mature size
15.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow West African Laburnum for the first time
7steps
Start with planting West African Laburnum in a sunny spot, and follow these steps for success.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds or young plants, potting mix, a container if starting indoors.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant seeds in spring after the last frost, or buy young plants any time of year.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use well-draining soil; for containers, choose one at least 15 cm deep with drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds in the ground or start them indoors 6-8 weeks before planting outside.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep soil moist but not waterlogged; place containers in a sheltered spot if outdoors.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water regularly, especially during dry spells. Provide full sun and regular pruning to maintain shape.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune after flowering to encourage bushier growth; remove dead or damaged branches as needed.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:LeavesStem
Edible uses: The West African Laburnum is edible and its leaves and stems can be consumed. Typically, these parts are prepared by cooking before eating. Skip the raw form due to potential toxicity concerns.
Other uses:Pest controlTeeth
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
21 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
21 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 21 native
Africa19 regions
native (19)BeninBurkina FasoCameroonChadCôte d'IvoireGambiaGhanaGuineaGuinea-BissauLiberiaMaliMauritaniaNigerNigeriaSenegalSierra LeoneSudanTogoUganda
Broader regions
native:Central African Repu, Zaïre
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family, common use cases, and growing requirements.
shared use cases
Different families, similar therapeutic role — good for comparing.
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
XII
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