Golden Rain Tree
Koelreuteria paniculata
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Pl. 0695 — Koelreuteria paniculata
Koelreuteria paniculataKoelreuteria paniculataKoelreuteria paniculataKoelreuteria paniculataKoelreuteria paniculataKoelreuteria paniculataKoelreuteria paniculataKoelreuteria paniculataKoelreuteria paniculataKoelreuteria paniculataKoelreuteria paniculataKoelreuteria paniculataKoelreuteria paniculataKoelreuteria paniculata
IOverview
Overview
The Golden Rain Tree (Koelreuteria paniculata) is a deciduous tree native to China's north-central, south-central, and southeast regions, as well as Korea and Manchuria. Known for its ornamental value, it features distinctive bright yellow flowers that hang in long, drooping clusters, resembling golden rain. The tree thrives in full sun and can tolerate various soil types, including light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay) soils. It is hardy in zones 5-8 and reaches a height of about 10 meters. In addition to its aesthetic appeal, the Golden Rain Tree offers edible parts such as leaves, seeds, and shoots, making it a versatile plant for those interested in incorporating it into their landscapes or gardens.
Quick answers
What is Golden Rain Tree?
The Golden Rain Tree (Koelreuteria paniculata) is a deciduous tree native to China's north-central, south-central, and southeast regions, as well as Korea and Manchuria. Known for its ornamental value, it features distinctive bright yellow flowers that hang in long, drooping clusters, resembling golden rain.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Golden Rain Tree thrives in full sun and prefers well-drained soils that are light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It can tolerate dry to moist conditions but requires regular watering during establishment. Hardy in zones 5-8, this tree is best suited for temperate regions. Propagate via seed or by dividing the root ball in spring. Edible parts include leaves, seeds, and shoots, making it a versatile addition to your garden.
Light
Full sun
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
5-8
Habit
Tree
Mature size
10.0 m tall
Soil pH
4.5–8
For first-time growers
How to grow Golden Rain Tree for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple planting of Golden Rain Tree to enjoy its beautiful flowers and foliage.
- 1
What you'll need
Golden Rain Tree saplings, garden gloves, spade or shovel.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost or early fall before the first freeze.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a well-draining spot with light to medium soil. Ensure the area gets full sun.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant saplings from containers directly into the ground, spacing them 6-10 meters apart.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly until established. Monitor for pests and diseases.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water deeply once a week during dry periods. Prune in late winter to maintain shape.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune in late winter to remove dead wood and shape the tree. Enjoy its flowers and leaves as ornamental features.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy clay soil, neglecting winter protection in colder zones.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:LeavesSeedShoots
Edible uses: The golden rain tree's leaves and young shoots are edible, often harvested in spring and eaten raw or cooked. The seeds can be roasted for a snack. These parts are typically prepared fresh due to the plant's native range in China and Korea where they grow well in various soil types and sunlight conditions.
Other uses:CraftingDye
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
5 native · 25 introduced
Distribution
5 native · 25 introducedDistribution across2 continents· 5 native· 25 introduced
Europe4 regions
introduced (4)AustriaBulgariaHungaryUnited Kingdom
Asia4 regions
native (2)ChinaSouth Korea
introduced (2)TurkmenistanUzbekistan
Broader regions
introduced:Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Missouri, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, West Virginia, Czechoslovakia
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 0695a0bd-9534-4c38-8ce2-717c55ed952b
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