Golden Rain Tree

Golden Rain Tree (Koelreuteria paniculata)

Golden Rain Tree (Koelreuteria paniculata) is a small to medium-sized deciduous tree celebrated for its brilliant summer flowers, airy seed capsules, and graceful branching habit. Native to eastern Asia, this ornamental tree offers multiseason interest with its bright yellow flower clusters in midsummer, papery lantern-like fruit in fall, and finely textured foliage that turns golden in autumn. Its manageable size and striking appearance make it an ideal choice for urban landscapes, courtyards, and focal point plantings.

Distinctive Features

Koelreuteria paniculata produces large, showy panicles of bright yellow flowers in midsummer�a time when few other trees are in bloom. These are followed by distinctive papery seed capsules that resemble Chinese lanterns, turning pink to tan as they mature. The tree's pinnate or bipinnate leaves emerge with a pinkish hue in spring, mature to deep green, and finish the season with warm golden tones. It typically grows 25 to 40 feet tall with a rounded, spreading canopy that casts light shade.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun
• Soil: Well-drained soil; tolerant of a wide range of soil types, including poor or compacted soils
• Water: Low to moderate; once established, it is drought tolerant
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5�9

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Bright yellow summer blooms and lantern-like seedpods make it a seasonal showstopper
• Street Tree: Tolerates urban conditions including heat, pollution, and compacted soils
• Small Shade Tree: Offers light, dappled shade for patios, lawns, and seating areas
• Cottage Gardens: Adds charm and seasonal change to more informal designs
• Specimen Planting: Performs beautifully when planted alone in lawns or near entryways

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Water regularly during establishment; minimal irrigation needed once mature
• Pruning: Prune in winter to maintain structure and remove any weak branches
• Fertilizing: Not typically necessary in fertile soils
• Mulching: Helps retain soil moisture and reduce weed competition
• Pest Resistance: Generally pest and disease resistant

Why Choose Golden Rain Tree?

• Unique Seasonal Display: Yellow blooms, lantern-like seed pods, and golden fall color
• Urban Toughness: Withstands heat, drought, and compacted soils
• Compact Size: Fits well in small yards and urban lots
• Low Maintenance: Minimal pruning and watering required once established
• Focal Point: Distinctive flower and seed display make it an eye-catching centerpiece

Koelreuteria paniculata is a versatile and striking ornamental tree that brings bold seasonal interest and resilience to a wide range of landscapes, making it a smart and beautiful choice for focal point plantings or functional shade in smaller spaces.