Goldenrain Tree

Plant type: Deciduous tree
Botanical name: Koelreuteria paniculata
Hardiness: USDA Zones 5 to 8

The golden raintree (also called panicled goldenraintree) is a small- to midsized tree with a broadspreading canopy of medium-green leaves. In midsummer, footlong panicles of yellow flowers hang from the branches. Eventually long seedpods form, at first green, then turning brown in early fall. Grows 25 to 40 feet tall and wide (or possibly wider). Fall color is variable, usually yellow to golden and sometimes orangish-yellow.

Culture: Give this tree full sun. Adapts to a wide range of soils.

How to use it: Because of its adaptability to acid and alkaline soils, drought, heat and pollution, the goldenraintree has been successfully used as a street tree in many cities. Its wide canopy and medium stature make this a great selection for providing shade in small- to mid-sized lots. It's also not usually bothered by significant pests or disease. Its downsides: some gardeners may consider the hanging brown pods the tree's least attractive stage, and the pods have to be swept up, not only for neatness but to avoid having to pull up seedlings the next spring.

Selected cultivars: