Outback Cassia

Plant Type: evergreen shrub
Plant Height: 4–6 feet
Spread: 4–6 feet
Flower Color: bright yellow
Sun Exposure: Full sun

Outback Cassia (Cassia oligophylla): Long-Blooming Desert Color

Outback Cassia is a hardy, evergreen shrub native to Australia, admired for its long bloom season and cheerful yellow flowers. Its dense, rounded habit and drought tolerance make it a top pick for Arizona landscapes seeking year-round greenery with bursts of color.

Key Features of Outback Cassia

• Extended Bloom Time: Produces clusters of golden-yellow flowers from late fall through spring.
• Evergreen Foliage: Small, narrow green leaves keep the plant looking lush all year.
• Drought Tolerant: Once established, thrives with minimal supplemental water.
• Low Maintenance: Maintains a naturally rounded shape with little to no pruning.

Growing and Care Tips

Outback Cassia thrives in sunny, well-drained sites and requires minimal care once established.

Soil: Prefers sandy or rocky, well-draining soil; amend clay to improve drainage.
Water: Water regularly during establishment; afterward, water deeply only every 2–3 weeks in hot weather.
Fertilizer: Apply a low-phosphorus fertilizer in late summer or early fall to encourage blooms.
Pruning: Lightly trim after flowering to maintain shape and remove any spent blooms.

Landscaping Uses

• Seasonal Color Accent: Adds vibrant yellow during cooler months when other plants may be dormant.
• Low-Water Borders: Works beautifully in xeriscapes and desert-adapted gardens.
• Pollinator Plant: Attracts bees and other beneficial insects.
• Mass Plantings: Creates a striking effect when planted in groups.

Summary

Outback Cassia is a durable, attractive evergreen that delivers brilliant color with minimal upkeep. Its long bloom period and heat tolerance make it a reliable performer in Arizona landscapes.

Three Timbers Installation Guide (Feel Free to Follow): Outback Cassia

Planting Guide:

Location: Full sun for optimal flowering.
Soil: Well-draining sandy or rocky soil; amend clay for better drainage.
Spacing: Space 4–6 feet apart to allow for mature spread.
Planting Depth: Keep crown level with surrounding soil.
Support: None required—forms a sturdy, rounded structure naturally.

Watering Guide:

Watering After Planting:

• Initial Watering: Water deeply at planting to settle roots.
• Frequency: Every 4–5 days for the first 2–3 weeks.
• Watering Amount: Enough to moisten soil 8–10 inches deep.

When is the Plant Established?

• Typically established after 2–3 months of consistent watering and visible new growth.

Watering Once Established:

• Summer: Water every 14–21 days during prolonged heat and drought.
• Winter: Supplemental water is rarely needed unless extremely dry.

Drip Irrigation Setup:

Placement of Emitters: Place 1 emitter 12–18 inches from the base.
Flow Rate: 1–2 gallons per hour.
Number of Emitters: One for younger plants; two for mature shrubs.
Adjusting Frequency: Increase in extreme heat; reduce in cooler months.

General Watering Tips for Outback Cassia:

• Soil Check: Let the top 3–4 inches dry before watering again.
• Avoid Overwatering: Too much water can cause root problems and reduce flowering.
• Mulch: Use gravel mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds without trapping excess humidity.