A tough, rounded shade tree carrying large airy sprays of yellow summer flowers followed by ornamental papery lantern-like seed capsules, with bright yellow autumn foliage.
At a glance
- Plant type: Tree
- Mature size: 9 m H × 8 m W
- Aspect: full sun
- Water: very drought tolerant once established
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Golden Rain Tree
Botanically, Koelreuteria paniculata is a moderate-growing tree in the Sapindaceae family. It reaches around 9 m tall and 8 m wide at maturity, with deciduous, rich in autumn colour and golden foliage. Yellow flowers appear in summer.
Where to grow Golden Rain Tree
Golden Rain Tree suits warm-temperate, cool-temperate and Mediterranean climates and grows best in full sun. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters. It also is a genuinely water-wise choice.
Soil & planting
Golden Rain Tree does best in loamy, free-draining and poor soil. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
Golden Rain Tree handles dry conditions well once established. A light spring feed is usually enough to maintain steady growth. New plantings need closer moisture checks in hot or windy weather, with watering tapered once strong new growth appears.
Pruning & care
Prune Golden Rain Tree after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Expect a low maintenance care workload once it is established.
Using Golden Rain Tree in the garden
Golden Rain Tree earns its place for a shade tree, a feature or specimen planting and feeding bees and pollinators.
Companion planting & design
For easier irrigation and care, group Golden Rain Tree with species that also favour very drought tolerant and warm-temperate climate. Leave enough room for the mature spread so neighbouring plants are not crowded out.
Good to know
It is thornless and easy to handle.
Buying Golden Rain Tree
Plant Sale lists Golden Rain Tree as advanced specimens and bare-root stock. Catalogue forms are planning guidance until the Plant Sale team confirms live availability.
