Platyosprion platycarpum

RHS Plant Profile
Japanese yellow-wood

Synonyms

Cladrastis scandens
Cladrastis platycarpa

Trees

A deciduous tree, growing up to 30m (100ft) high on a straight trunk bearing grey bark, reaching 1.2m (4ft) in diameter. The crown is dome shaped with green leaves which consist of leaflets either side of the midrib and a single leaf at the tip. The tree produces white pea-shaped flowers with a yellow flush in the throat in April to June. It is very hardy and able to grow well in a location with sufficient room to reach maturity; where it receives full sun and in a moderately moist soil, anywhere in the UK.

Position

Full sun

Soil Types

Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand

Max Height

Higher than 12 metres

Max Spread

wider than 8 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
20–50 years
Max Spread
wider than 8 metres
Max Height
Higher than 12 metres

Growing Conditions

Chalk Clay Loam Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H7

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Fabaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Spreading branched
Genus
Name Status
Correct
Plant Range
Japan, China

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grows well in any well-drained soil in full sun.

Propagation

Propagate by seed, by semi-ripe cuttings in summer, or by hardwood cuttings in autumn

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Architectural
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Low Maintenance

Pruning

Pruning group 1

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free