Plant types

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Planting conditions

Seasonal interest

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Laburnum alpinum

Also Known As

Alpine Golden Chain Tree
Scotch Laburnum

Plant type

tree

size

H: 15'-30'
W: 25'

planting zones

4a-9b

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Laburnum alpinum plant details

Laburnum alpinum is a broadleaf deciduous tree with green foliage. In summer yellow flowers emerge. Grows well with sun and regular water. Does well in rich and well-drained soil.

CHARACTERISTICS OF Laburnum alpinum

Plant type: tree
Plant family: fabaceae
Foliage: deciduous green
Mature size: 25 FT wide, 15 FT - 30 FT - tall
Flowers: yellow blooms in summer
Uses: floriferous, toxic

GROWING CONDITIONS for Laburnum alpinum

USDA Zones: 4a - 9b
Sun exposure: sun
Watering frequency: regular

Soil needs: rich and well-drained

Nursery contributed plant descriptions

This small broad-spreader (to 25' x 25') from the mountainous woods of Austria to Yugoslavia and Italy produces long pendulous clusters of fragrant yellow flowers along with shiny-deep-green trifoliate leaves. S/M

By: Forestfarm

Scotch Laburnum is an easily grown medium sized tree that displays some of the brightest yellow flowers we have ever seen. The flowers hang from the branches in racemes similar to a Wisteria in shape and can be seen from miles away when a tree is in full bloom. The wide branching pattern and attractive bark also provide winter interest. Gardeners will often plant these trees in hedges but Scotch Laburnum can be easily trained to grow in specific shapes and around arbors as specimen trees.

It is reported that these trees do not tend to thrive in the southern states where the summers are hot and humid.

By: Red Panda Nursery

Grown for its handsome bright yellow flowers that appear profusely on upright branches in May.

By: Heritage Seedlings

Scotch laburnum is the most cold hardy species with 10-15 inch pendant clusters of yellow flowers. Try twining a wisteria up the trunk for the weeping U of M effect.

By: Arrowhead Alpines

Gorgeous 15" long, Wisteria-like yellow blooms in late spring on a smaller tree makes this perfect for the smaller yard. Likes full sun but appreciates afternoon shade in hot areas. Doesn't like the combination of heat plus humidity. Can take hotter zones if more dry. This European native is very lovely but poisonous, so be mindful if you have small children. Great background plant.