Rain Tree

The Rain Tree (Samanea saman) is a massive tree with an umbrella-shaped crown. Originally introduced from the Americas, they are now a defining, iconic feature of Singapore’s urban streetscapes and parks.

Identifying features

Check out some identifying features of the Rain Tree!

The Rain Tree features a massive, wide, perfectly umbrella-shaped canopy that casts a wide, welcoming shade. When the tree is in bloom, look up to spot its beautiful, pinkish-white flowers that look exactly like tiny, delicate powder puffs scattered across the foliage. You will also notice how the thick, sprawling branches are often heavily covered in a lush blanket of epiphytes, most notably the large, rosette-shaped Bird's Nest Ferns.

Habitat and ecology

This tree has specialized bacteria in its roots that take nitrogen from the air and convert it into nutrients, enriching the soil around it.

Did you know?

The tree gets its name from a fascinating behavior: its leaflets fold up tightly together right before it rains and during the late afternoon. This allows rainfall to pass freely through the canopy to reach the roots and ground below!

Learn more about the Rain Tree!

Curious about the Rain Tree? Here are some interesting articles you can read to learn more about them.

Flora and Fauna Web - Rain Tree

Biodiversity of Singapore - Rain Tree