Goldenrain tree (Koelreuteria bipinnata)
Care, watering, light and tips for Goldenrain tree on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Sapindaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Goldenrain tree
Koelreuteria bipinnata, also known as Chinese Flame Tree or Golden Rain Tree, is a medium-sized ornamental tree renowned for its spectacular yellow summer bloom and distinctive lantern-shaped seed pods, which mature to a pink or reddish hue in autumn. Its delicate foliage and rounded canopy make it ideal as a shade tree or a specimen plant in medium to large gardens, providing seasonal interest for much of the year.
Native range
China and Vietnam
Care tips
It prefers full sun exposure for optimal flowering, though it can tolerate partial shade. It is quite drought-tolerant once established but will appreciate regular watering during dry periods, especially in its first few years. It adapts to a wide range of soils, as long as they are well-drained; avoid excessively heavy or waterlogged soils. A common mistake is planting it in confined spaces, as it needs room to develop its beautiful canopy.
How to save a dying Goldenrain tree
- Warning signs
- Yellowing or browning leaves falling prematurely, dry twigs, stunted growth.
- First aid
- Check watering (avoid waterlogging and extreme drought), improve drainage, protect from strong winds.
- What kills it
- Overwatering (root rot) or prolonged drought in young stages. Lack of formative pruning.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if roots are not completely rotted and the main trunk is healthy. Act fast.