Cladrastis kentukea
Kentucky yellow-wood
A spreading tree with bright, light green leaves to 30cm long composed of 7-9 ovate leaflets, turning clear yellow in autumn. Pendent panicles of fragrant white flowers to 3cm long are borne in late spring and early summer.
Synonyms
Cladrastis tinctoriaCladrastis lutea
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Size
Ultimate height
8–12 metresTime to ultimate height
20–50 yearsUltimate spread
Wider than 8 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
Spring | Green | |||
---|---|---|---|---|
Summer | White | Green | ||
Autumn | Yellow | |||
Winter |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H6Botanical details
- Family
- Fabaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Bushy
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- SE USA
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in fertile, well drained soil in full sun sheltered from cold winds as the wood is very brittle.
Propagation
Sow seeds as soon as ripe in the autumn and keep in cold frame - propagation trees from sed. Take root cuttings in winter.
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Architectural
Pruning
Pruning group 1 after flowering or in late autumn or early winter.
Pests
Usually pest-free
Diseases
Usually disease free
Get involved
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