Yellowwood

Cladrastis kentukea

Planted 2009

This broad spreading tree gets its name from the yellow dye that colors its wood. This tree prefers lots of sun and well-drained soils. Its signature white flowers are very fragrant, and its foliage turns yellow in the fall.

Yellowwood tree
Close up of Yellowwood leaf
Close up of Yellowwood bark
Height Width Zone Growth Rate Water Use
30-50 ft. 40-55 ft. 4-8 Moderate Moderate

Leaf

Simple, pinnately organized, green leaves.

Fruit

Seed pods.

Flower

Clusters of white, fragrant, drooping flowers.

Advantages

Tolerates some dryer soils. No big pest or disease issues.

Disadvantages

New trees may not bloom for 8-10 years.