Contents
Description
Peltophorum Pterocarpum, commonly known as the Golden Shower Tree, is a stunning ornamental tree belonging to the Fabaceae family. This fast-growing deciduous tree is native to Southeast Asia, and it can grow up to 60 feet tall.The Golden Shower Tree blooms during the dry season, producing yellow-golden flowers that hang in long, pendulous clusters. These flowers are highly fragrant and attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Peltophorum |
| Species | Pterocarpum |
Appearance
The Golden Shower Tree has a broad, spreading crown with a dense foliage of pinnate, bright green leaves. The leaves are about 6 inches long and have 10-20 pairs of leaflets.The tree produces clusters of showy, bright yellow-golden flowers, each measuring about 1 inch in diameter. These flowers bloom in the dry season, usually between February and April.The fruit of the Golden Shower Tree is a flat, woody pod, about 4-6 inches long and 2-2.5 inches wide, containing several seeds.
Care Guide
Water: The Golden Shower Tree prefers moist, well-drained soil. Water the tree regularly during the growing season, but avoid overwatering.Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer during the growing season to promote healthy growth and blooming.Soil: The Golden Shower Tree thrives in well-drained soil with a pH level between 6.0 and 7.5.Sunlight: This tree requires full sun exposure to produce abundant blooms.Hardiness Zones: The Golden Shower Tree is hardy in USDA zones 10-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Golden Shower Tree is relatively pest-resistant, but it may be susceptible to leaf-eating caterpillars and scale insects. In terms of diseases, the tree may suffer from fungal leaf spots and root rot in poorly drained soil.
Habitat
The Golden Shower Tree is native to Southeast Asia, including Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, and the Philippines. It prefers a tropical or subtropical climate, and it can grow in a variety of soils, including sandy, loamy, and clayey soils.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Golden Shower Tree drought-tolerant?
A: While the Golden Shower Tree prefers moist soil, it can tolerate some drought. However, prolonged drought may cause stress and reduce blooming.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Golden Shower Tree?
A: Apply a balanced fertilizer every three months during the growing season.
Q: Can I grow a Golden Shower Tree in a container?
A: Yes, you can grow a Golden Shower Tree in a container, but make sure the container is large enough to accommodate the root system. Use well-drained soil and water the tree regularly.
Q: How do I prune my Golden Shower Tree?
A: Prune your Golden Shower Tree during the dormant season to remove dead or diseased wood and shape the tree. Avoid heavy pruning, as this may reduce blooming.
Related Plants
- Peltophorum Dubium
- Peltophorum Ferrugineum
- Peltophorum Africanum
References
- “Peltophorum Pterocarpum,” Missouri Botanical Garden, accessed August 23, 2021, https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282960.
- “Golden Shower Tree (Peltophorum Pterocarpum),” Florida Museum, accessed August 23, 2021, https://www.floridamuseum.ufl.edu/herbarium/cat/search.asp?accno=217443.
- “Peltophorum Pterocarpum,” PlantZAfrica, accessed August 23, 2021, http://pza.sanbi.org/peltophorum-pterocarpum.
