22 MISC. PUB. 882, U.S. DEPT. OF AGRICULTURE 
BN—13189 
FIGuRE 10.—Cassia siamea Lam. 
perhaps the commonest windbreak species, especially on St. Croix. 
It occurs as a yard tree and as an ornamental along the streets and 
highways, and in parks and other public places. It thrives best on 
well-drained soils in moderate or high rainfall areas, and is not found 
on shallow soils in the drier districts. The trees prefer full sunlight. 
Although the tree is reproduced by seeds, it has not spread widely. 
The possibility of its becoming a serious pest is negligible, in part 
because it 1s So easy to eradicate. 
Toxiciry AND Symproms.—The leaves, stems, and seeds of Cassia 
siamea contain an alkaloid that causes death to hogs very quickly after 
being consumed (7). In Puerto Rico, farmers have suffered severe 
losses of hogs from Cassia siamea poisoning. Hogs relish the leaves of 
the plant and readily consume any within reach. Although cattle and 
sheep are apparently not affected (7), it is advisable to take precau- 
tionary measures to prevent them from eating portions of the plant. 
MANAGEMENT AND Controut.—This ornamental tree is not a pest 
at present in the Virgin Islands. Livestock have not been observed 
to browse on the foliage, but the pods and seeds, particularly the 
latter, are very toxic, and are a constant threat to swine. This danger 
is much increased when trees are blown over by storms or hurricanes. 
Livestock, especially swine, should not be allowed access to mature 
trees. Where only a few plants are involved, they may be either 
pulled up or grupped out. Young plants are susceptible to basal or 
foliar applications of 2,4-D or related herbicides. 
