Contents
Taxonomic Information
Domain: Eukaryota
Kingdom: Plantae
Phylum: Spermatophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Fabales
Family: Fabaceae
Genus: Laburnum
Description
Laburnum Alpinum, also known as Alpine Laburnum, is a deciduous tree that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is native to the mountainous regions of Europe and can grow up to 8 meters tall. The tree has a smooth, grayish-brown bark and a broad, rounded crown. Its leaves are pinnate, with 7-10 oval leaflets that are dark green in color. The Laburnum Alpinum is a popular ornamental tree because of its showy and fragrant yellow flowers that bloom in late spring and early summer. The flowers are followed by long, slender seed pods that contain poisonous seeds.
Appearance
The Laburnum Alpinum has a distinctive appearance that makes it a popular choice for landscaping. The tree has a broad, rounded crown and smooth, grayish-brown bark. Its leaves are pinnate, with 7-10 oval leaflets that are dark green in color. The Laburnum Alpinum produces showy and fragrant yellow flowers that bloom in late spring and early summer. The flowers are followed by long, slender seed pods that can grow up to 8 inches long.
Care Guide
The Laburnum Alpinum is a relatively low-maintenance tree. It can tolerate a variety of soil types, but prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic. The tree requires regular watering, especially during hot and dry weather. It is also important to fertilize the tree once a year in the spring. The Laburnum Alpinum prefers full sun to partial shade and is hardy in USDA zones 5-7.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Laburnum Alpinum is generally a healthy tree, but can be susceptible to certain pests and diseases. The most common pests that affect the tree are aphids, which can cause leaf curling and yellowing. The tree can also be susceptible to powdery mildew, which can cause a white, powdery coating to form on the leaves. Other diseases that can affect the Laburnum Alpinum include canker and root rot.
Habitat
The Laburnum Alpinum is native to the mountainous regions of Europe, and is commonly found in the Alps, the Carpathians, and the Pyrenees. The tree prefers cool, moist climates and can grow at elevations up to 2,000 meters. It is a hardy tree that can tolerate cold temperatures and high altitudes.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Laburnum Alpinum poisonous?
A: Yes, the seeds of the Laburnum Alpinum are poisonous and should not be ingested.
Q: Can the Laburnum Alpinum be grown in containers?
A: While it is possible to grow the tree in containers, it is not recommended as the tree can grow up to 8 meters tall.
Q: How often should the Laburnum Alpinum be fertilized?
A: The tree should be fertilized once a year in the spring.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for the Laburnum Alpinum?
A: The Laburnum Alpinum is hardy in USDA zones 5-7.
Related Plants
- Laburnum anagyroides (Common Laburnum)
- Laburnum watereri (Voss’s Laburnum)
- Laburnum x watereri ‘Vossii’ (Golden Chain Tree)
- Laburnum x watereri ‘Pendulum’ (Weeping Golden Chain Tree)
References
- Dirr, M. A. (2019). Dirr’s trees and shrubs for warm climates: an illustrated encyclopedia. Timber Press.
- Mayo, S. J., Bogner, J., & Boyce, P. C. (1997). The genera of Araceae. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Laburnum alpinum. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287223
