Cassia ferruginea var. vellozoana, commonly known as Ironwood Cassia or Brazilian Ironwood, is a deciduous perennial shrub. It can be found in the Cerrado, a vast tropical savanna ecoregion of Brazil. It is adapted to a climate with distinct wet and dry seasons and is often found in open woodlands and grasslands. This species grows at a moderate rate to a height of 15-30 feet (4.6-9 meters) and a width of 10-20 feet (3-6 meters). It features a spreading habit with a rounded canopy and compound leaves that create a light, airy texture. The Ironwood Cassia is celebrated for its bright yellow, showy flowers that bloom in the summer, attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

The plant is valued for its ornamental qualities, including its vibrant floral display and its ability to thrive in a range of soil types. It is often used in urban landscaping, as a street tree, and in gardens for its shade and aesthetic appeal. Ironwood Cassia requires full sun to part shade and prefers medium or fast-draining loam or sandy soils. It is relatively drought-tolerant once established, making it suitable for xeriscaping. While it generally requires medium amounts of water, it can survive longer dry periods. Gardeners should be aware that Cassia species can be subject to pests like aphids and diseases such as root rot if drainage is poor.CC BY-SA 4.0