Koelreuteria Paniculata

1. Description

Koelreuteria Paniculata, also known as the Golden Rain Tree, is a deciduous tree that is native to eastern Asia. It is a popular ornamental tree due to its beautiful yellow flowers and interesting seed pods. The tree typically grows to be 30-40 feet tall with a spread of 20-35 feet. The leaves are pinnate and can range from 8-15 inches long. The tree is also known for its attractive bark, which is smooth and gray when young, but becomes fissured and scaly as it ages.

2. Taxonomic Information

3. Appearance

The Koelreuteria Paniculata is a beautiful tree with a rounded canopy that can provide ample shade during the summer months. The tree’s leaves are pinnate and can range from 8-15 inches long. They are bright green in the summer and turn yellow in the fall. The tree is also known for its beautiful flowers, which are yellow and appear in late spring or early summer. After the flowers are finished, the tree produces interesting seed pods that are papery and inflated, resembling Chinese lanterns. These seed pods can persist on the tree throughout the winter, adding further interest to the tree’s appearance.

4. Care Guide

Koelreuteria Paniculata is a relatively low-maintenance tree. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun exposure. It is also drought tolerant once established. Here are some additional tips for caring for your Golden Rain Tree:

• Water: Water your tree regularly for the first year to establish a strong root system. After that, the tree is drought tolerant and should only be watered during extended periods of drought.
• Fertilization: Fertilize your tree with a balanced fertilizer in the spring before new growth appears.
• Soil: The tree prefers well-drained soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH.
• Sunlight: The Golden Rain Tree prefers full sun exposure.
• Hardiness Zones: The tree is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.

5. Common Pests & Diseases

The Golden Rain Tree is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, here are some common issues to be aware of:

• Aphids: These small insects can cause yellowing or curling of the leaves. They can be treated with insecticidal soap.
• Leaf spot: This fungal disease can cause brown spots on the leaves. It can be treated with a fungicide.
• Verticillium wilt: This soil-borne fungal disease can cause wilting and death of the tree. There is no treatment for this disease, so prevention is key. Make sure to plant your tree in well-drained soil and avoid overwatering.

6. Habitat

Koelreuteria Paniculata is native to eastern Asia, including China, Korea, and Japan. In its natural habitat, the tree can be found in open woodland areas and along riverbanks. It is a hardy tree that can tolerate a wide range of growing conditions.

7. Question and Answer

Q1: Can the Golden Rain Tree be grown in a container?
A1: While it is possible to grow the tree in a container, it is not recommended as the tree can grow quite large and will eventually outgrow the container.

Q2: How often should I fertilize my Golden Rain Tree?
A2: Fertilize your tree with a balanced fertilizer in the spring before new growth appears.

Q3: Can I grow the Golden Rain Tree in a shady location?
A3: The tree prefers full sun exposure and will not thrive in a shady location.

Q4: How often should I water my Golden Rain Tree?
A4: Water your tree regularly for the first year to establish a strong root system. After that, the tree is drought tolerant and should only be watered during extended periods of drought.

8. Related Plants

• Koelreuteria bipinnata
• Koelreuteria elegans
• Koelreuteria henryi

9. References

• “Koelreuteria paniculata.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c120. Accessed 14 Apr. 2021.
• “Koelreuteria paniculata.” Plant Database, Dave’s Garden, www.davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/625/. Accessed 14 Apr. 2021.
• “Golden Rain Tree.” The Morton Arboretum, www.mortonarb.org/trees-plants/tree-plant-descriptions/golden-rain-tree. Accessed 14 Apr. 2021.