The golden shower tree is a medium-sized tree, growing to 10–20 m (33–66 ft) tall with fast growth. It blooms in late spring. Flowering is profuse, with trees being covered with yellow flowers, many times with almost no leaf being seen. It will grow well in dry climates. Growth for this tree is best in full sun on well-drained soil; it is relatively drought tolerant and slightly salt tolerant. It is the national tree of Thailand, and its flower is Thailand's national flower. It is a popular ornamental plant and is also used in herbal medicine.