Limited Quantities - Reserve Now For Fall
Golden Chain Tree
Golden Chain Tree
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Laburnum × watereri ‘Vossii’
Golden Chain Tree
The Golden Chain Tree is a breathtaking ornamental tree prized for its cascading chains of golden-yellow flowers in late spring. With its elegant form, fragrant blooms, and compact size, it’s an excellent choice for focal points, courtyards, or small gardens.
Though not native, this tree captivates with its stunning display and European charm—bringing a touch of drama and luxury to any landscape.
Golden Chain Tree Overview
|
Attribute |
Details |
|
🌿 Botanical Name |
Laburnum × watereri 'Vossii' |
|
🏷️ Common Names |
Golden Chain Tree, Voss’s Laburnum |
|
🌳 Mature Height |
15–25 feet |
|
🌐 Mature Width |
10–15 feet |
|
📈 Growth Rate |
Moderate (12–24 inches per year) |
|
⏳ Lifespan |
20–40 years |
|
🧊 USDA Zones |
5–7 |
|
❄️ Chill Hours |
500–800 hours |
|
☀️ Sun Preference |
Full sun to partial shade (best blooms in full sun) |
|
🧱 Soil Type |
Well-drained loam or sandy soil |
|
⚖️ Soil pH |
Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0) |
|
💧 Water Needs |
Moderate; prefers consistent moisture |
|
🌸 Flower Color |
Long, golden-yellow pendulous clusters (10–20") |
|
🍒 Fruit Type |
Flat brown seed pods; not edible |
|
🐝 Pollinators |
Attracts bees and early-season pollinators |
|
🌿 Growth Habit |
Small deciduous tree with arching branches |
|
↔️ Spacing |
12–15 ft apart or as a specimen |
|
🏡 Landscape Uses |
Focal point, cottage gardens, courtyards, arbors |
|
🧹 Maintenance Level |
Moderate |
Environmental Benefits
🌸 Offers early nectar for pollinators like bees and hoverflies
🌿 Adds vertical interest and canopy diversity to landscapes
🌧️ Performs well in moist, well-drained soils, especially in cooler regions
🌼 Provides rare ornamental beauty during spring flowering season
Pros & Cons
|
✅ Pros |
⚠️ Cons |
|
🌼 Spectacular golden flower chains in late spring |
☠️ All parts of the plant are toxic if ingested |
|
🐝 Supports pollinators early in the season |
🌬️ Not heat- or drought-tolerant in southern zones |
|
🏡 Ideal for compact landscapes or specimen plantings |
✂️ May need training or support when young |
|
🌳 Unique European flair for cottage-style gardens |
🍂 Short bloom window (2–3 weeks) |
|
🎨 Adds dramatic seasonal flair with minimal footprint |
❄️ Susceptible to frost damage in harsh late springs |
Planting & Care Guide
🛁 Water deeply before planting and during dry spells in first year
🕳️ Dig a wide, shallow hole; plant with root flare just above soil line
🌾 Mulch 2–3 inches deep, keeping clear of trunk base
💦 Provide consistent watering in hot or dry periods
✂️ Prune lightly after flowering to maintain form
🧪 Use compost or low-nitrogen fertilizer in early spring
The Golden Chain Tree delivers a showstopping spring display with its elegant golden blooms and graceful shape. While it requires a little extra care and thoughtful placement, the visual reward is unmatched—making it a centerpiece that turns heads and sparks conversation year after year.
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