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Kentucky yellowwood
Cladrastis kentukea
Cladrastis kentukea or Kentucky yellowwood flowers from May to June in white fragrant and honey-like clusters, reminiscent of those of wisteria or laburnum
Description
Height at maturity
8 - 10 m
Wingspan at maturity
5 - 8 m
Exposure
sun
Flowering
May - June
Hardiness
-20°C
Origin
Kentucky
Kentucky yellowwood - American Yellowwood – Cladrastis kentukea
Origin and Characteristics
Cladrastis kentukea, commonly known as American Yellowwood, originates from the southeastern United States, particularly Kentucky, and belongs to the Fabaceae family.
Still rarely cultivated, it is prized for its spectacular flowering and brilliant autumn foliage.
Description and Features
Mature height: 8 to 10 meters
Mature width: 5 to 8 meters
Growth habit: Spreading, slightly wide, often multi-stemmed
Foliage: Deciduous; large, light green compound leaves, turning golden yellow to orange in autumn
Flowering period: May to June
Flower description: Hanging clusters of white butterfly-shaped flowers, vanilla-scented, very bee-friendly
Fruit description: Flat, slender pods, typical of the Fabaceae family
Hardiness: Very good (down to -20 °C)
Location and Soil
Preferred exposure: Full sun
Ideal soil: Fertile, moist and well-drained
Tolerance: Sensitive to heavy and poorly drained soils; prefers deep, light soils
Planting
Best planting time
Autumn or early spring
Soil preparation
Deeply loosen the soil and enrich with compost or potting soil
Spacing
Plant as a specimen tree; allow at least 8 to 10 meters of space around the mature tree
Watering
Water needs at planting
Regular watering during the first year to ensure proper root development
Watering when established
Moderate; water during extended dry periods
Pruning
When to prune
Avoid pruning unless necessary; light pruning in late winter
Pruning advice
-
Remove dead or poorly placed branches
-
Maintain its naturally elegant silhouette
-
Heavy pruning discouraged, as Cladrastis heals poorly
Propagation
Possible methods
Seed propagation (slow to germinate), semi-hardwood cuttings are difficult
Garden Uses
Ideal location
As a specimen tree in lawns, large gardens, or landscape designs
Recommended companion plants
-
With Cercis canadensis for early spring blooms
-
With Cornus florida for prolonged flowering and autumn colors
-
With Liquidambar styraciflua for striking fall foliage
-
With Amelanchier lamarckii for a light and natural effect
-
With Magnolia sieboldii for long-lasting summer white blooms
Disease Resistance
Potential issues
Generally resilient; monitor for canker after injury
Natural prevention
Well-drained soil, avoid heavy pruning
Growth Tips
-
Choose a sunny, open, and well-aerated location
-
Loosen soil deeply before planting
-
Water regularly during the first two years
-
Mulch to retain soil moisture
-
Limit pruning to preserve its natural architecture
Features
- Common name : Kentucky yellowwood - American yellowwood
- Family : Fabaceae
- Category : tree
- Spread : 5 - 8 m
- Foliage : deciduous
- Color of flowers : white
- Use : isolated - shrubbery
- Soil : rich and well-drained
- Habit : Spreading
- Earth to use : universal potting soil/garden soil/compost
- Enemies : nothing to report
- Possible diseases : resistant to diseases
Expédition & livraison
How does the delivery work?
As soon as you place your order your plants are selected
Each order is processed individually.
Plants are packed, staked and labeled.
Packaging is carefully implemented to avoid any problems.
Packages are ready to be shipped.
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