Pic of the Day – Koelreuteria paniculata ‘Beachmaster’

The small stature of this selection makes it useful in modern landscapes. - photo Christopher Glenn

The small stature of this selection makes it useful in modern landscapes. – photo Christopher Glenn

Koelreuteria paniculata, or goldenrain tree, is an Asian tree valued for its bright yellow summer flowers when few trees other than crepe myrtles are in bloom. The selection ‘Beachmaster’ is a relatively dwarf tree growing to about 20′ tall and wide. The branched flower panicles are a bit earlier than the species typically is and will give rise to Chinese lantern-like seed pods. It is exceptionally drought tolerant and will grow in very sandy coastal conditions. Fall color can be deep gold. Koelreuteria can seed around a bit and has the potential to colonize in waste areas and roadsides but will not out-compete native trees over time.

Follow me at @jcramark because you need another outlet for your plant addiction.

The gold flowers are held on branched panicles for a full look.

The gold flowers are held on branched panicles for a full look. – photo Christopher Glenn

Leave a comment