Koelreuteria paniculata or Golden Rain Tree

... this week we are focusing on the Koelreuteria paniculata or Golden Rain Tree.  It is a fast-growing, deciduous tree reaching about 30' in height.  At maturity, it has a rounded crown, and is about as wide as it is tall.  It has compound leaves giving it an overall lacy appearance. The leaves turn yellow before falling. The bark is light gray-brown and becomes furrowed with age.

Golden Rain Tree is perhaps most striking in the June and July with its large clusters of showy yellow flowers. These are followed by beautiful 2" red-purple seed pods.The fruit is a papery three-compartment structure full of seeds which look like Chinese paper lanterns.  They are wonderful for use in fall decorations. 

Growing habit:  This tree is quite adaptable to most soil conditions, but it must be well drained.  Once established, this tree is very drought tolerant and it also resists alkaline soil, heat, wind, and air pollution. In order to produce the best blooms and fruit, good sunlight is preferred.  However, if you wish to cut down on the number of seed pods, this tree will tolerate partial shade.  Prune crossing branches as needed during winter when dormant.  The Golden Rain Tree has no serious insect or disease problems, but it can be susceptibility to root rot, leaf spot and canker.

Propagation: Propagates itself prolifically so we aware of where you plant the Golden Rain Tree.  It is best not to plant near flower beds or gardens.   Transplant seedlings or start from cuttings or seed.

Warning:  This tree can be extremely invasive when grown in very warm southern climates, so you may want to use caution when introducing into a small yard.   Golden Rain Tree is best grown in cooler zones where the shorter growing season prevents formation of seed.