The Golden Rain Tree (Koelreuteria paniculata) is native to Asia and is historically planted near temples and places of remembrance. This tree brings with it a sense of beauty and grace, earning its name from the yellow flowers that fall from the tall boughs in late summer after their bloom cycle.The Golden Rain Tree features a neat, rounded habit and well-behaved roots (meaning it won't try and break your water pipes). They grow quite large at maturity, reaching over 30 feet in height and width, but can live in containers as well. They prefer full sun and thrive in zones 6 through 9. You can plant them in zone 5 but we recommend protecting them from windy areas or extreme temperatures if possible, and they may not grow as tall that far north. The trees are considered urban-friendly, tolerating a variety of conditions. The lovely small yellow flowers are a favorite of bees as well.Another name earned by the Golden Rain Tree is the Chinese Lantern Tree, for its adorable paper lantern-shaped seed pods. This is a beautiful summer-blooming tree, sure to bring an air of elegance wherever it grows.
