Cladrastis kentukea

A beautiful habit, autumn foliage plus wonderful fragrant flowers and seed pods - Cladrastis kentukea is an exceptional specimen tree that offers a continuous display through all the seasons.

Commonly known as Kentucky yellowwood, Cladastris kentukea is a graceful deciduous tree with an elegant, vase-shaped, spreading crown and smooth grey bark reminiscent of beech. In late spring and early summer, mature specimens bear intensely fragrant, wisteria-like panicles of white flowers—typically 15–30?cm long—offering a spectacular display. The flowers are followed by slender yellow-brown pods that persist into winter. Its pinnate foliage, composed of 7–9 ovate leaflets, emerges pale green and matures to vibrant hues before transforming to brilliant yellow-gold and copper tones in autumn.

Deep-rooted and tolerant of a range of soils—including alkaline, acid, clay, sand, and loam—it thrives in full sun and adapts to dry periods once established. Cladastris kentuka is a stunning, multi-season tree that combines striking summer blooms and autumn colour, making an exceptional choice for enhancing any landscape. RHS Award of Garden Merit. Ultimate height: 8-12m (26.2 – 39ft). Spread: 8m + (26.2ft).

A beautiful habit, autumn foliage plus wonderful fragrant flowers and seed pods - Cladrastis kentukea is an exceptional specimen tree that offers a continuous display through all the seasons.

Commonly known as Kentucky yellowwood, Cladastris kentukea is a graceful deciduous tree with an elegant, vase-shaped, spreading crown and smooth grey bark reminiscent of beech. In late spring and early summer, mature specimens bear intensely fragrant, wisteria-like panicles of white flowers—typically 15–30?cm long—offering a spectacular display. The flowers are followed by slender yellow-brown pods that persist into winter. Its pinnate foliage, composed of 7–9 ovate leaflets, emerges pale green and matures to vibrant hues before transforming to brilliant yellow-gold and copper tones in autumn.

Deep-rooted and tolerant of a range of soils—including alkaline, acid, clay, sand, and loam—it thrives in full sun and adapts to dry periods once established. Cladastris kentuka is a stunning, multi-season tree that combines striking summer blooms and autumn colour, making an exceptional choice for enhancing any landscape. RHS Award of Garden Merit. Ultimate height: 8-12m (26.2 – 39ft). Spread: 8m + (26.2ft).