Trying to identify a seed pod (sorry no picture yet). Perhaps just the description will tell all? Large, about 18" long, slightly curved (less than a banana). Dark brown. Hard exterior. Slightly rough texture. Square(ish) 4 sided cross-section about 1"x 1". Tampered ends. Not twisted or curled. Completely dried, rattles slightly. Origin unknown, but pretty sure it's not honeylocust. Can't find an image on the internet that is even close. I'll try to get an image this evening. ...Okay here it is. Sorry but I have no idea what the tree looked like..this thing just traveled into my family circle and no one can remember where it came from. My kid's teacher says it looks like something from her childhood in Puerto Rico...maybe that will help???
Kentucky coffee tree, Gymnocladus dioicus...? If you could tell us about the tree from which it came, that info would help in ID. Oh, yes: welcome to the Forum! Look forward to your photo.
Togata just went and had a look at your suggestion what a great looking tree. Is this similar to the Robinia (sp) and Black locusts (Robinia pseudoacacia) I think that is what I have down my drive way and they are very pretty and delicate. About to come into leaf. Liz
Still trying to find a good photo on the net. Think I found it in a photo of "Pink Cassia"?? unsure though.
It remided me of the pods I have seen on Cassia leptophylla. I think you are on the right track with Cassia.
Since I'm not allowed (by my kids) to open the pod and examine the seeds, I'll have to go with your prognostication Dylan G. After reading a little about the Gold Medallion, I realized that they are readily found in Southern California...which is likely where this pod got picked up. Found some images on Flickr too. http://www.flickr.com/photos/garyfixler/sets/72157621658285987/ Thanks everyone!
