The toxic effect of chromium on seed germination, shoot, root length and dry weight of an important arid tree (Caesalpinia pulcherrima) was recorded. The seeds of C. pulcherrima responded differently to chromium treatment. The reduction in the growth of C. pulcherrima provided evidence that the chromium in excess may be inhibitory to plant growth and development. 100 ppm concentration of chromium produced a significant (p<0.05) inhibition to shoot length as compared to control. Seed germination and dry weight were also significantly (p<0.05) affected by chromium treatment. The seeds of C. pulcherrima showed high tolerance to chromium at 25 ppm concentration.