Koelreuteria paniculata Seeds | Golden Rain Tree
LATIN NAME: Koelreuteria paniculata
COMMON NAME: Golden Rain Tree, Pride of India
Plant Profile
Known to gardeners as Golden Rain Tree, Koelreuteria paniculata is a deciduous tree in the soapberry family, native to warm hills of China and nearby lands, while it is grown for its bright flowers. Golden rain tree is one of brightest of flowering trees of summer, and its long sprays of yellow flowers and its papery lantern pods have made it a favourite of warm gardens. At maturity it stands about Ten metres. Not many plants ask so little and repay so much.
Science & Biotechnology
Botanists studying the soapberry family regularly include Koelreuteria paniculata in comparative work, and the species also appears in horticultural trials aimed at gardeners and growers. Tree has also been studied in botany, since it is a member of soapberry family, and researchers have examined its classification and its relationships, while its papery fruits have been studied for their form. Continuing work by breeders and collectors keeps good seed of this species moving through the trade.
Uses & Benefits
Beyond its ornamental appeal, Golden Rain Tree has the practical versatility that makes a plant worth growing from seed year after year. Ecologically, golden rain tree is a generous tree of late summer garden. Its golden flowers feed bees and other pollinators, and its papery lanterns and seeds feed wildlife, while it brings a golden cloud to garden and the street. For a grower, golden rain tree is an easy and rewarding tree, and for a gardener it brings a golden cloud of bloom and papery lanterns in the autumn. Given the right start, it carries on with minimal intervention.
Golden rain tree is a beloved summer-flowering street tree; its flowers yield a traditional yellow dye in China.
Growing from Seed
Raising Golden Rain Tree from seed is straightforward. Sow on the surface of a gritty, well-drained mix, cover lightly with fine compost, and maintain gentle, even moisture in a sunny position. Once the seedlings have made true leaves, pot them on individually and plant out when they are sturdy and conditions are right.
Our Take
At around ten metres, it stays at a scale that suits modest gardens. Golden Rain Tree, Pride of India has real presence in the garden without demanding much in return. Once the young plants are away, there is little left to do but watch them grow.
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