| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Clade | Tracheophytes |
| Clade | Angiosperms |
| Clade | Eudicots |
| Clade | Rosids |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Subfamily | Caesalpinioideae |
| Genus | Cassia |
| Species | C. fistula |
| Binomial name | Cassia fistula |
Kanikkonna (Cassia fistula), also known as the Golden Shower Tree, is the state flower of Kerala. It is locally celebrated
for its beautiful bright yellow flowers, which bloom in summer, especially during the Vishu festival, marking the Malayalam New Year.
The tree is deeply connected to Kerala’s culture and tradition. Its flowers are an essential part of the ‘Vishukkani’,
a ritual arrangement of auspicious items viewed first thing on Vishu morning. The blooming of Kanikkonna is seen as a
sign of prosperity and good fortune.
In addition to its cultural importance, the Kanikkonna tree is valued in Ayurvedic medicine for its medicinal properties.
It is a deciduous tree commonly found in gardens, roadsides, and forests across Kerala.
Kanikkonna stands as a symbol of Kerala’s natural beauty, tradition, and seasonal cycles.