Koelreuteria paniculata | Pride of India | Golden Rain Tree

The Koelreuteria paniculata makes an excellent medium-sized, specimen tree that gives interest throughout the year. This deciduous tree is native to eastern Asia and thrives on a wide range of free-draining soil; will even tolerate dry sites, air pollution and excels in both sheltered and exposed locations with full sun. Its unique long pinnate leaves, up to 45cm long, have 11-13 serrated individual leaflets, that emerge with a pinkish-tinge in spring, later turning bright green, and finally in autumn to a blaze of orange and yellow. In July and August small yellow flowers appear on long panicles that cover the tree; these are followed by lovely ornamental lantern-shaped pink bladders that hold seed pods. This very attractive tree is relatively undemanding and easy to care for, it also provides pollen and nectar for bees and other pollinators.

Mature Height

7-12m

Tree Features

Large, pinnate leaves create a dense rounded crown.

Brown, textured bark with vertical orange cracks.

Growing Conditions

Most free-draining soil in a sunny location.

Season of Interest

Summer - Yellow flowers hang on long slender panicles.

Autumn - Green leaves turn a blaze of yellow, orange and red.

Winter - Lanterns, with the seed pods, can be seen still hanging on the tree.

Tree Type

Standard, Multistem, Umbrella

Growing Locations

Gardens, Parklands, City/Towns

Evergreen / Deciduous?

Deciduous
Did you know?

The Koelreuteria paniculata was introduced from China to UK in 1763; the genus Koelreuteria is named after a German botanist. The seeds of the Koelreuteria paniculata can be eaten if roasted.