Perkins Pink American Yellowwood

Perkins Pink American Yellowwood (Cladrastis lutea 'Perkins Pink')

Perkins Pink American Yellowwood (Cladrastis lutea 'Perkins Pink') is a rare and elegant flowering tree known for its cascading pink blossoms, graceful branching, and refined appearance. A unique pink-flowering selection of the native Yellowwood, this small to medium-sized deciduous tree offers exceptional beauty for spring landscapes and all-season appeal.

Distinctive Features

'Perkins Pink' stands out for its soft pink, wisteria-like flower clusters that drape over the branches in late spring to early summer. The fragrant flowers appear in abundance on older, established trees, creating a dramatic display. The compound foliage emerges bright green, turning a clear yellow in fall, while the smooth gray bark adds a beech-like elegance in winter. Its broadly spreading, vase-like form creates a gentle canopy that provides filtered shade and a graceful silhouette.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun
• Soil: Prefers deep, moist, well-drained soils; tolerates slightly alkaline conditions
• Water: Moderate; regular watering during establishment is important
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 4�8

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Showy pink blooms and spreading form create strong visual impact
• Specimen Tree: Ideal for lawns, courtyards, and open garden spaces
• Shade Tree: Broad canopy offers soft, dappled shade
• Pollinator Gardens: Fragrant blooms attract bees and other pollinators
• Native-Inspired Plantings: Offers native character with an uncommon color twist

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Keep soil evenly moist during establishment; tolerates short dry periods once mature
• Pruning: Prune in summer after flowering to avoid excessive bleeding
• Fertilizing: Not typically required; use a balanced fertilizer in early spring if needed
• Mulching: Mulch to retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and reduce weed competition
• Protection: Avoid heavy clay or compacted soils; best sited in a protected location with good drainage

Why Choose Perkins Pink American Yellowwood?

• Uncommon Pink Flowers: A rare and beautiful native tree with soft pink bloom clusters
• Refined Structure: Graceful form and smooth bark offer year-round elegance
• Seasonal Interest: Flower, foliage, and bark combine for multi-season appeal
• Low Maintenance: Adaptable and long-lived with minimal care required
• Focal Point: One of the few native trees with dramatic pink flowers and ornamental value

Cladrastis lutea 'Perkins Pink' delivers refined beauty and unique color to the landscape, offering a standout focal point tree that combines native charm with exceptional floral display and all-season interest.