Cladrastis kentukea

Flowers: In late spring, typically May, Cladrastis kentukea puts on a breathtaking floral display. Cascading from the branches are pendulous clusters of creamy white, pea-like flowers—borne in elegant, fragrant panicles up to 12–15 inches long. These delicate blossoms exude a sweet, subtle perfume and give the tree a wisteria-like grace, attracting pollinators and admiration alike.

Foliage: The foliage emerges a bright yellow-green and matures to a rich, deep green by summer. Each compound leaf is composed of 7 to 11 ovate leaflets, lending a lush, graceful texture to the canopy. As autumn approaches, the leaves turn a brilliant, clear yellow—true to its common name—offering one of the most dependable and striking fall displays among deciduous trees.

Fruit: After flowering, slender, flat seedpods appear, maturing to a rich brown by late summer. These pods dangle lightly from the branches and persist into winter, adding subtle interest to the tree’s bare silhouette.

Light Requirements:

Yellowwood flourishes in full sun, requiring at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. While it can tolerate partial shade, optimal flowering and growth occur with ample sunlight.

Soil Preferences:

This tree prefers moist, well-drained soils but is adaptable to a range of soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soils. It tolerates both acidic and alkaline pH levels and can withstand urban conditions, such as pollution and salt exposure. ​

Watering:

During its initial growing season, ensure the tree receives consistent moisture to establish a deep, extensive root system. Once established, yellowwood exhibits moderate drought tolerance but benefits from occasional watering during prolonged dry spells.

Temperature Tolerance:

Hardy in USDA zones 4 through 8, yellowwood can endure a wide range of temperatures. However, intense winter cold may reduce flowering in the subsequent spring.

Fertilization:

Yellowwood is not a heavy feeder. If soil tests indicate low nitrogen levels or if the foliage appears yellowish, apply a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer in early spring to support healthy growth and flowering. ​edgeofthewoodsnursery.com+5The Spruce+5Ask IFAS - Powered by EDIS+5

Pruning:

Prune yellowwood during the summer or immediately after flowering to prevent excessive sap bleeding. Focus on removing dead, damaged, or crossing branches to maintain a strong structure. Early pruning to develop wide branch angles and well-spaced lateral limbs can help prevent weak crotches and potential breakage as the tree matures. ​

Potential Concerns:

Yellowwood has relatively few pest or disease issues but may be susceptible to verticillium wilt. Its smooth bark can be prone to sunscald, and the wood is somewhat brittle, making it vulnerable to damage from heavy snow, ice, or strong winds. Proper siting and pruning can mitigate these concerns.