American Yellowwood

American Yellowwood (Cladrastis lutea)

American Yellowwood (Cladrastis lutea) is a graceful, medium-sized deciduous tree native to the southeastern United States. Known for its cascading white flower clusters, smooth gray bark, and brilliant yellow fall color, this refined ornamental tree is prized for its seasonal elegance and adaptable form.

Distinctive Features

Yellowwood earns its name from the yellow hue of its inner heartwood, but it�s the floral and structural display that sets it apart. In late spring to early summer, mature trees produce pendulous racemes of fragrant, pea-like white flowers that resemble wisteria blooms. The leaves are compound and bright green, turning a clear, golden yellow in fall. Its smooth, beech-like bark adds year-round beauty, especially in winter when the tree�s branching structure becomes more visible.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun
• Soil: Deep, moist, well-drained soils; prefers slightly acidic to neutral pH
• Water: Moderate; water consistently during establishment
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 4�8

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Flowering display and elegant form make it a standout specimen tree
• Lawn Tree: Broad canopy offers light, dappled shade
• Pollinator Gardens: Fragrant flowers attract bees and butterflies
• Native Gardens: Blends seamlessly into native and restoration-focused landscapes
• Urban Landscapes: Tolerates pollution and confined root zones when sited properly

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Keep evenly moist while young; becomes more drought tolerant with age
• Pruning: Prune in summer to reduce bleeding; remove crossed or weak branches as needed
• Fertilizing: Generally unnecessary; apply a balanced fertilizer only if growth is poor
• Mulching: Mulch to maintain soil moisture and reduce weed competition
• Protection: Avoid compacted or poorly drained soils; tree performs best with ample root space

Why Choose American Yellowwood?

• Elegant White Flowers: Fragrant, hanging blooms create a dramatic late-spring display
• Brilliant Fall Color: Clear yellow foliage adds seasonal contrast
• Attractive Bark: Smooth gray bark enhances winter interest
• Low Maintenance: Minimal pruning and care once established
• Focal Point: Perfect for use as a signature tree in residential or public landscapes

Cladrastis lutea combines native reliability with ornamental beauty, offering multi-season interest through its flowers, foliage, and form�making it an exceptional focal point for refined landscape designs.